7.0 magnitude earthquake hits Taiwan

TAIPEI: A 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck about 32 kilometres off the northeastern coastal city of Yilan, Taiwan, late on Saturday, the island’s weather administration reported.

The tremor, with a depth of 73 kilometres, shook buildings in the capital Taipei and surrounding areas. Authorities are currently assessing the damage, the National Fire Agency said.

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Taiwan sits near the junction of two tectonic plates, making it prone to frequent earthquakes. In the past, the island has suffered major quakes, including a 2016 earthquake in southern Taiwan that killed over 100 people, and a 7.3 magnitude quake in 1999 that claimed more than 2,000 lives.

Officials have urged residents to remain alert and follow safety protocols as rescue and assessment operations continue.

In April 2024, Taiwan was hit by its strongest earthquake in at least 25 years, leaving nine people dead and over 900 injured.

The 7.2 magnitude quake struck just offshore at around 8 am near Hualien, a mountainous and sparsely populated county, triggering massive landslides. Some buildings were left tilted at dangerous angles due to the tremor.

Authorities had said that 50 workers travelling in minibuses to a hotel in a national park remain missing, raising concerns over further casualties.

Rescue helicopters were deployed to bring people to safety after the earthquake damaged roads and blocked tunnels, leaving hundreds stranded in the mountains.

Rescuers have also airdropped food and supplies to students, teachers, and residents at an inaccessible elementary school.

Web Desk