Taiwan experienced a 5.9-magnitude earthquake on Wednesday, with the epicenter located about 71 kilometers (44 miles) south of Hualien City.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the quake struck at a depth of 31.1 kilometers (19.3 miles). The shaking was strong enough to be felt in various areas, including the capital, Taipei.
Firefighters were quickly sent out to inspect the situation. One firefighter in the coastal town of Chenggong told AFP, “The computer screen and fan shook heavily. It felt stronger than usual. I even thought of running outside.”
So far, there have been no reports of injuries or damage.
Taiwan often faces earthquakes because it sits on the boundary of two tectonic plates and is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is one of the world’s most earthquake-prone areas.
Earlier this year, in April 2024, a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck the island, killing at least 17 people and causing landslides and building damage around Hualien. It was the strongest quake in Taiwan in the last 25 years.
