Rescuers are currently engaged in efforts to free dozens of individuals who are trapped following a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake that struck Taiwan's east coast on Wednesday. This earthquake is reported to be the strongest to hit the region in the past 25 years.
Tragically, at least nine individuals have lost their lives, with over 900 others sustaining injuries. Additionally, more than 100 buildings have been damaged due to the quake, which also triggered landslides in the affected areas.
The initial earthquake occurred at 7:58 a.m. local time, striking 18 kilometers south of the city of Hualien at a depth of 34.8 kilometers, as per the US Geological Survey. Following the main quake, several strong aftershocks, including a 6.5-magnitude tremor, have been experienced. Authorities anticipate further aftershocks, some potentially reaching a magnitude of 7, in the coming days.
Hualien County, where the earthquake primarily hit, is home to approximately 300,000 residents. While the main city of Hualien houses a significant portion of the population, many individuals reside in remote coastal or mountainous areas that may be challenging to access, making it difficult to ascertain the full extent of the casualties and destruction.
Notably, dozens of individuals are currently trapped in two mines in Hualien County, with 64 individuals stuck in the Heping mine and seven others in the Zhonghe mine, according to Taiwan's national fire agency.
Despite sustaining damage, hospitals in Taipei are operational, with the Municipal Government confirming that medical facilities are functioning normally. However, seven hospitals in the capital have reported structural damage as a result of the earthquake.
Furthermore, the world's largest chipmaker is working towards resuming operations following the quake. This development is crucial for various industries, including the production of smartphones, computers, automobiles, and household appliances. The earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by the vital chipmaking sector.
