Taiwan struck by 5.5 magnitude earthquake

Taiwan’s capital, Taipei, experienced a significant earthquake on Monday evening, according to AFP reports. The Central Weather Administration confirmed it as a magnitude-5.5 tremor originating in eastern Hualien.

This region had previously been struck by a devastating magnitude-7.4 quake on April 3, causing widespread damage and loss of life. The recent earthquake comes as a reminder of the ongoing seismic activity in the area, with aftershocks still being felt since the earlier major quake.

The US Geological Survey recorded Monday’s quake at a magnitude of 5.3, with a depth of 8.9 kilometers. Witnesses described it as one of the strongest quakes or aftershocks since the April  3 event.

“It felt like one of the strongest quakes or aftershocks since the big one earlier this month,” an AFP staffer said.

The Hualien fire department has dispatched teams to assess any potential damage caused by the recent tremor. Taiwan, being located at the convergence of tectonic plates, experiences frequent seismic activity.

The April 3 earthquake and subsequent aftershocks had already caused significant disruptions, including landslides and structural damage in Hualien. While the impact of Monday’s quake is still being assessed, authorities are closely monitoring the situation.

Taiwan has a history of earthquakes due to its geographical location, with the 1999 quake being one of the deadliest in the island’s history. Improved building regulations and public disaster awareness have helped mitigate the effects of recent earthquakes, highlighting the importance of preparedness in such seismic-prone regions.