Taiwan Hit by Strongest Earthquake in 25 Years, Leaving Deaths and Missing
A powerful earthquake, the strongest to hit Taiwan in at least 25 years, struck on Wednesday. The 7.2 magnitude quake, centered near Hualien county, caused at least nine fatalities and over 900 injuries.
The mountainous region near the epicenter experienced significant damage, with buildings tilting precariously and landslides triggered. Rescue efforts continued through the night, with emergency workers shoring up damaged structures and demolishing those beyond repair.
One particularly affected building, the Uranus building, suffered severe damage with its first two floors buried underground. City officials confirmed the evacuation of all residents and businesses from buildings deemed unsafe. Demolition work began on four such buildings.
A major concern involves 50 workers traveling by minibus to a national park hotel who went missing after the earthquake. Firefighters managed to evacuate 70 people trapped in tunnels near Hualien city, including two German citizens. The search for the missing workers continues. Additionally, around 80 people are trapped in a mining area, though details remain unclear.
Landslides caused significant road blockages, with rescuers working to clear debris and locate survivors. One such rescue involved a man found unconscious in a truck on a blocked mountain highway.
The earthquake caused widespread panic. A local bed-and-breakfast owner described scrambling to calm frightened guests.
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