A 6.1-magnitude earthquake hit off Taiwan’s east coast friday early morning, the United States Geological Survey said.
Early this morning, a 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck off Taiwan’s east coast, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake occurred near Hualien, a city known for frequent seismic activity, at a depth of approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles). While the tremor was felt across the island, especially in Taipei, there have been no immediate reports of major damage or casualties.
This seismic event marks the second significant earthquake in Taiwan within the last 24 hours, following a 5.4-magnitude quake that hit northeastern Taiwan the previous day. Taiwan lies near the intersection of two tectonic plates, making it particularly prone to earthquakes.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, though the early reports suggest limited impact on infrastructure. In the past, similar earthquakes in Taiwan have occasionally resulted in significant damage and even tsunamis, so the region remains vigilant. according to Philstar.
Initially reported by the island’s Central Weather Administration as a magnitude 6.3, the earthquake occurred at 7:35 a.m. local time (2335 GMT), with a depth of 15 kilometers (approximately nine miles), near the city of Hualien.
Taiwan’s National Fire Agency issued a statement around 8 a.m. confirming that there were “no reports of damage” from the recent earthquake. The island is prone to frequent seismic activity due to its position between two tectonic plates. The most recent significant quake occurred in early April, when a devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck, which officials declared as the most powerful in 25 years.
The April earthquake resulted in at least 17 fatalities, triggered landslides, and caused extensive damage to buildings in the vicinity of Hualien, near the epicenter.
