13-2-2025 (TAICHUNG) A catastrophic explosion ripped through one of Taiwan’s premier shopping destinations on Tuesday morning, claiming four lives and leaving six others fighting for survival in what witnesses described as scenes of utter devastation.
The powerful blast, which tore through the upper levels of the Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store in central Taichung, sent shockwaves across the city’s commercial district, with the impact felt as far as two kilometres away.
Emergency services rushed to the scene as thick smoke billowed from the building’s 12th floor, where the explosion originated around 11:00 local time. The force of the blast shattered countless windows and scattered debris across surrounding streets, prompting authorities to cordon off major thoroughfares.
????????????Gas Explosion at Taichung Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, Taiwan – 11:33 AM
A massive gas explosion occured , blowing 4 people out of the 12th-floor food court. Rescue efforts continue.
Current Status
– 4 deaths confirmed
– 6 critical injuries
– 1 additional fatality (male) pic.twitter.com/I1IQ13Ja8l— Weather Monitor (@WeatherMonitors) February 13, 2025
“The building literally shook, and then there was this almighty bang,” said Lin Wei-chen, who works at a neighbouring office block. “Within seconds, the air was filled with falling glass and building materials. It was absolute chaos.”
Among the casualties were several tourists from Macau, with local authorities confirming that one visitor had succumbed to their injuries. The incident has prompted the establishment of a crisis management centre as rescue teams continue their painstaking search through the wreckage.
Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, speaking at an emergency press briefing, confirmed the tragic toll. “We are facing an unprecedented situation,” she said. “Our immediate focus remains on supporting the rescue operation and ensuring no one else is trapped in the building.”
The explosion occurred during renovation works on the 11th and 12th floors, where the building’s food courts are located. Police have deployed 50 officers to maintain order and manage traffic flow, with key routes including Taiwan Boulevard Section 3 and Huilai Road Section 2 remaining closed to the public.
