16-8-2024 (TAIPEI) Taiwan experienced its second significant seismic event in less than a day as a 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck off the eastern coast near Hualien on Friday morning. The tremor, which occurred at 9.7 km depth and 34 km from the city, sent shockwaves across the island, including the capital Taipei.
The Central Weather Bureau issued immediate alerts, prompting swift reactions from residents and authorities alike. In Taipei, the metro system continued operations at reduced speeds as a precautionary measure, while buildings swayed under the impact of the quake.
Hsieh Yu Wei, a local singer caught driving along Hualien’s coastal highway during the event, recounted his experience: “It was close. I had to pull over immediately after receiving the government’s earthquake warning.”
This latest tremor follows closely on the heels of a 5.7 magnitude quake that shook Taiwan’s northeastern shore late Thursday, underscoring the island’s vulnerability to seismic activity. Situated near the junction of two tectonic plates, Taiwan is no stranger to earthquakes, but the frequency and intensity of recent events have raised concerns among residents and officials.
The weather administration has issued warnings about potential landslides in mountainous regions, a risk exacerbated by recent rainfall. These alerts highlight the complex interplay between seismic activity and weather patterns that can amplify natural disaster risks.
Friday’s earthquake brings back memories of the devastating tremor that struck Hualien in April, the most powerful to hit Taiwan in at least 25 years. That event resulted in nine fatalities and left over 900 people injured, serving as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by seismic activity in the region.
