Powerful earthquake in Taiwan causes damage to buildings (images)

KATHMANDU: An intense earthquake measuring 7.4 magnitude struck off the eastern coast of Taiwan, resulting in the tragic loss of at least four lives and leaving several dozen individuals injured.

The seismic incident originated approximately 18 kilometers from the city of Hualien, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

Authorities confirmed that this earthquake is the most powerful to hit the region in the past 25 years.

Following Wednesday’s tremor, officials have reported at least nine aftershocks of magnitudes ranging from 4.0 to higher.

Further details on the extent of damage caused by the earthquake are awaited.

Local media outlets have captured scenes of residential buildings swaying and people being rescued from homes and schools, indicating the widespread impact of the quake.

In light of the earthquake’s occurrence, warnings of possible tsunamis have been issued for Taiwan and neighboring coastal nations.

Japan’s Meteorological Agency has cautioned of potential tsunamis reaching up to 3 meters in parts of Miyako-jima and Okinawa islands.

Residents are advised to remain vigilant as ocean waves could rise by up to three meters.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has also raised concerns about potential tsunamis in certain regions.

Additionally, reports from China’s southeastern Fujian province indicate tremors felt in some areas, as communicated by government communication channels.

The earthquake serves as a grim reminder of Taiwan’s vulnerability to seismic activity, with the devastating 7.6 magnitude quake in September 1999 claiming the lives of over 2,400 individuals.