Defense News

Taiwan

A devastating earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale struck the east coast of Taiwan at 7:58 am on Wednesday, resulting in significant loss of life and widespread damage. According to reports, at least seven people have lost their lives, while 711 others have been reported injured.

The earthquake's epicenter was located approximately 25 kilometers south of Hualien, a county in eastern Taiwan, with its impact felt across the entire island. Buildings collapsed, and residents ran in panic as the ground shook violently for nearly a minute.

Among the casualties, three hikers lost their lives due to falling rocks at the Dekalun Trail in Taroko National Park, while a truck driver was killed when his vehicle was crushed by rocks near a tunnel in Hualien. In addition, more than 40 people, mostly tourists, were injured in Taroko Park, and hundreds were evacuated.

In various parts of Taiwan, at least 50 individuals were injured either by falling objects or as a result of the earthquake's impact. Search and rescue operations are underway, with 22 people rescued from a collapsed eight-storey building in Hualien, while five remain trapped and one person is reported missing.

The earthquake caused extensive damage to infrastructure, with reports of damaged walls, falling bricks, and debris across the island. A total of 125 buildings and houses have been reported damaged, including seven houses in New Taipei that collapsed due to foundation damage.

Taiwan's transportation network also suffered, with several mountain sectors of highways closed due to partial collapses or blockages from fallen rocks. However, Taiwan's high-speed rail services remain unaffected, with no reports of damage or injuries.

The earthquake's impact extended beyond Taiwan, with disruptions in the semiconductor industry, as major companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) evacuated factory areas and partially shut down operations as a preventive measure. Other companies such as Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Co and Innolux also took similar precautions.

In response to the disaster, Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen has called for military support in rescue missions, while Vice-President William Lai Ching-te urged the public to remain calm and cautious. However, there has been no confirmation regarding the postponement of the upcoming presidential inauguration scheduled for May 20.

The earthquake marks the most significant seismic event in Taiwan since 1999, with its impact felt in neighboring regions such as Japan and mainland China. Authorities have issued tsunami warnings, with aftershocks of up to magnitude 7 expected in the coming days, according to Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau.