Taiwan Rocked by Deadly Earthquake
Taiwan was hit by its most powerful earthquake in 25 years, as a massive tremor with a magnitude above 7 rocked the island nation. The earthquake caused widespread devastation, killing at least seven people, injuring over 700, and triggering tsunami warnings.
The eastern city of Hualien bore the brunt of the quake, with buildings shaking off their foundations, landslides, and collapsed structures. Among the casualties were three hikers and an engineering worker who were struck by falling rocks.
Rescue teams are currently working tirelessly to free 77 people who are trapped in rubble or require assistance. Meanwhile, aftershocks continue to be felt in the capital city of Taipei, with authorities warning that they could persist for the next few days.
Residents have shared their harrowing experiences of the earthquake, describing feelings of fear and helplessness during the violent tremors. The quake, which is estimated to have a magnitude between 7.2 and 7.7, is the strongest to hit Taiwan since 1999.
Although tsunami warnings were issued for Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines, the threat passed without causing any significant damage. Taiwan’s location on the Pacific “Ring of Fire” makes it prone to earthquakes, leading the government to implement strict building regulations and disaster preparedness programs to minimize casualties.
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