A strong earthquake struck off Taiwan’s north-eastern coast late Saturday, shaking buildings across the island and prompting brief transport disruptions, according to Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration.
The magnitude‑7.0 quake hit at 11:05 p.m. local time, with its epicentre located roughly 32 km (20 miles) off Yilan and at a depth of 73 km (45 miles). Tremors were felt widely, including in the capital Taipei, where residents reported buildings swaying for several seconds. Local media described collapsed ceilings and toppled supermarket shelves, though early assessments indicated no widespread major damage.
Rail operators temporarily slowed high‑speed and regional train services as a precaution, while emergency teams began overnight inspections of infrastructure. Initial tsunami alerts were issued in parts of the region but were later lifted as no significant sea‑level changes were recorded.
The quake follows a series of recent tremors in Taiwan, underscoring the island’s vulnerability along the seismically active Pacific “Ring of Fire.” Authorities continue to monitor aftershocks and assess structural impacts.
Earthquake Ritcher Scale Picture by Freepik
