15-8-2024 (TAIPEI) A moderate earthquake struck off the coast of northeastern Taiwan on Thursday afternoon, causing noticeable tremors in the capital city of Taipei but reportedly resulting in no significant damage. The seismic event, which occurred just after 5 pm local time, was initially reported by the US Geological Survey (USGS) as a magnitude 5.4 tremor.
Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration (CWA), however, assessed the quake at a slightly higher magnitude of 5.7. The discrepancy in measurements is not uncommon, as different agencies often employ varied methodologies in their seismic calculations.
According to the USGS, the epicentre was located approximately 44 kilometres southeast of Yilan county, in the waters off Taiwan’s northeastern coast. The quake’s focal point was relatively shallow, occurring at a depth of just 11 kilometres, which likely contributed to its perceptibility across a wider area.
M5.4 earthquake rocks Taiwan pic.twitter.com/MZ5bTBaIut
— AlexandruC4 (@AlexandruC4) August 15, 2024
Residents in Taipei, situated some distance from the epicentre, reported feeling the tremor. An AFP journalist in the capital described a swaying sensation in buildings, underscoring the quake’s reach despite its moderate strength.
In response to the seismic activity, the CWA swiftly issued mobile phone alerts to the public, advising calm and recommending that individuals seek nearby shelter as a precautionary measure. Such rapid alert systems have become an integral part of Taiwan’s earthquake preparedness strategy, aimed at minimising potential risks and casualties.
This latest tremor serves as a stark reminder of Taiwan’s position in one of the world’s most seismically active regions. The island nation, situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, is no stranger to earthquakes. In April of this year, Taiwan experienced its most powerful quake in a quarter-century – a devastating 7.4 magnitude event that claimed at least 17 lives, triggered landslides, and caused extensive damage to buildings in Hualien city.
