6.6-magnitude earthquake rattles Taiwan

A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 6.6 struck the waters off Yilan County, Taiwan, late on Saturday, the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) reported.

The tremor occurred at 23:05 Taiwan time, with the epicentre recorded at 24.67 degrees north latitude and 122.06 degrees east longitude at a depth of 60 kilometres. Initial data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) indicated a magnitude of 6.7, which may be revised as seismologists review further readings.

The quake was widely felt across Taiwan, causing buildings to shake noticeably. Reports indicate that ceiling lights swayed, doors and windows rattled, and residents in affected areas sought shelter. No casualties or significant property damage have been confirmed.

Authorities in Yilan County, closest to the epicentre, issued alerts warning of potential aftershocks and advised residents to evacuate if they observed structural damage to their homes. Fire departments confirmed two minor incidents involving people trapped during the tremor, with rescue teams dispatched promptly.

Rail services in parts of Taiwan were temporarily slowed or suspended as a precautionary measure. Officials also reported no abnormalities at the island’s three nuclear power plants.

Seismologists note that aftershocks, smaller tremors following the initial quake, are common and may continue for days, weeks, or even years, depending on fault activity in the region.

The earthquake highlights Taiwan’s vulnerability to seismic events due to its location along the tectonically active Pacific Ring of Fire, which regularly produces significant earthquakes.

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