Taiwan Shaken by Series of Earthquakes
Taiwan experienced a series of earthquakes overnight and into Tuesday, causing buildings to sway and some to tilt. The government attributed these seismic activities as aftershocks from a major earthquake that struck the island more than two weeks ago.
Earthquake Details
- The strongest earthquake, with a magnitude of 6.1 according to the United States Geological Survey, occurred around 2:30 a.m.
- This was followed by a 6.0 magnitude tremor just minutes later.
- The Taipei’s Central Weather Administration reported magnitudes of 6.0 and 6.3 for these earthquakes.
Impact on Infrastructure
Buildings, such as the Full Hotel in Hualien, eastern Taiwan, which was already damaged in the previous earthquake, were further affected by the recent tremors, leading to tilting and structural instability.
Despite the continuous shaking, there have been no reported casualties so far. However, residents, including those in the capital Taipei, experienced a restless night as walls and glass panels rattled in their homes.
Response and Precautions
Authorities urged residents to evacuate for their safety, with schools and offices in Hualien being closed due to the ongoing aftershocks. The seismic activity, originating from Hualien on the central east coast, has raised concerns about potential future earthquakes in the region.
Seismic Analysis
Taiwan, located at the junction of two tectonic plates, frequently experiences earthquakes. The recent cluster of tremors, following the major quake on April 3, has prompted seismologists to monitor the situation closely for any signs of heightened seismic activity.
Experts noted a shift in the seismic pattern towards the southern side of the initial quake, indicating a unique sequence of events. While the possibility of another large earthquake remains uncertain, residents are advised to review their earthquake preparedness measures.
Historical Context
The earthquake on April 3 was the most severe in Taiwan since 1999, emphasizing the importance of stringent building regulations and public awareness in mitigating the impact of natural disasters.
