Powerful earthquake strikes Taiwan, causing buildings to sway in Taipei

TAIPEI, Dec 28 — A 6.6-magnitude earthquake shook Taiwan’s northeastern coast on Saturday, marking the second significant tremor to hit the island in recent days, the US Geological Survey (USGS) reported. Taiwan’s weather agency put the magnitude at 7.0, saying the quake struck at 11:05 pm at a depth of 73 kilometres offshore near Yilan County, southwest of Taipei.

The Yilan County Fire Bureau told AFP there were no immediate reports of casualties or serious damage. The tremor caused buildings in Taipei to sway and was felt across the island. Electricity was briefly disrupted in a Yilan town, and Taiwan Railway temporarily suspended four trains, affecting over 270 passengers. Taipei’s metro also operated at reduced speed for about 20 minutes until authorities confirmed all stations and tracks were safe.

Premier Cho Jung-tai urged residents to stay alert and watch out for their neighbours. “A strong earthquake struck an hour ago (23:05). After checking various locations, thankfully, only minor incidents were reported,” he said on Facebook.

Taiwan, located along two tectonic plates near the Pacific Ring of Fire, is prone to frequent earthquakes. Earlier this week, a 6.0-magnitude quake hit the southeast. In April 2024, a 7.4-magnitude earthquake killed 17 people in Hualien city, while the 1999 7.6-magnitude tremor remains Taiwan’s deadliest in recent history. — AFP