7.0 Magnitude Earthquake Jolts Taiwan’s Coast; Tremors Felt in Taipei

A powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the waters approximately 32 kilometers off the northeastern coastal city of Yilan in Taiwan. According to the country’s weather administration on Saturday (December 27), the quake originated at a depth of about 73 kilometers. No major damage or casualties have been reported so far.

The weather office stated that the tremors were felt across Taiwan, causing buildings in the capital, Taipei, to sway. The earthquake has been categorized as moderate in intensity, meaning the risk of major collapses or loss of life remains low.

Taipei City authorities reported that while there is no initial word of major destruction, there have been isolated reports of gas and water leaks, as well as minor damage to some buildings. Taiwan Power Company noted that over 3,000 homes in Yilan briefly lost power before the situation was stabilized.

TSMC, the world’s leading chipmaker, reported that workers at some of its facilities in the northern Hsinchu Science Park were temporarily evacuated as a precaution. They returned to their posts once safety was confirmed.

The weather administration has warned of potential aftershocks measuring between 5.5 and 6.0 over the next 24 hours. However, since the quake occurred deep underwater, the likelihood of catastrophic damage is considered low. President Lai Ching-te stated on social media that the situation is under control but urged the public to remain vigilant against aftershocks.

Taiwan is highly prone to seismic activity as it sits near the junction of two tectonic plates. In 2016, a quake in southern Taiwan killed over 100 people, while a devastating 7.3 magnitude earthquake in 1999 claimed more than 2,000 lives.