A significant 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan on Saturday evening, causing tremors felt across the island. The seismic event occurred at 11:05 PM local time, with its epicenter located off the northeastern coast near Yilan. The tremors were strong enough to shake buildings even in the capital city of Taipei. The country’s Central Weather Bureau confirmed the magnitude and depth of the quake at 72.8 km. Taiwan’s National Fire Agency is currently assessing any potential damage. In response to the late-night quake, the fire agency promptly shared crucial safety guidelines via X (formerly Twitter), urging residents to prioritize self-protection, remain calm, and be prepared for aftershocks. They advised keeping essential items like shoes and a torch readily accessible. While the Taipei city government reported no immediate injuries or structural damage, a thorough assessment is ongoing. Taiwan’s location on a highly active seismic zone, where major tectonic plates converge, makes it prone to frequent earthquakes, with a history of devastating seismic events.
