A powerful earthquake measuring 6.1 on the Richter scale struck Taiwan’s southeastern coastal region on Wednesday, sending strong tremors across multiple cities and causing buildings to sway in the capital city of Taipei. The earthquake originated near Taitung County and was felt across large parts of the island, though authorities have confirmed that no casualties have been reported so far.
According to data from the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ), the earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 11.9 kilometers, a factor that contributed to the intensity of shaking experienced in several regions. Local media outlet Taiwan News reported that the epicenter was located approximately 10.1 kilometers north of Taitung County Hall. The tremor caused minor damage to a local shop in Taitung County, highlighting the force of the quake despite its relatively moderate magnitude.
Seismic intensity readings varied across Taiwan, with the strongest shaking recorded in the city of Taitung, where an intensity level of five was registered. Neighboring regions including Hualien County and Pingtung County experienced intensity levels of four. Several other areas such as Kaohsiung, Tainan, Nantou County, Chiayi County, Yunlin County and Changhua County recorded intensity level three shaking.
In northern and central regions including Taichung, Miaoli County, Yilan County, Hsinchu County, Taoyuan, New Taipei and Taipei, residents felt lighter tremors measuring intensity level two. Penghu County reported the weakest shaking with an intensity level of one.
Taiwan sits near the junction of two major tectonic plates, placing it within a highly active seismic zone. Earthquakes are a frequent occurrence on the island, often serving as reminders of past disasters. The latest tremor revived memories of the devastating 2016 earthquake in southern Taiwan that claimed more than 100 lives. Even more catastrophic was the 1999 earthquake, which measured 7.3 in magnitude and resulted in over 2,000 deaths.
While this latest earthquake caused only limited damage and no reported injuries, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. Residents across Taiwan remain alert, aware that seismic activity is an unavoidable reality in the region. Emergency services have urged the public to stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and be prepared for possible aftershocks in the coming days.
