Earthquake of 7.4 Magnitude Hits Taiwan, Worst in 25 Years

Source: RAWSALERTS

Earthquake of 7.4 Magnitude Hits Taiwan, Worst in 25 Years

Footage of the earthquake in Taiwan went viral on social media, grabbing attention worldwide, including in Malaysia.

A massive earthquake measuring 7.4 magnitude struck the eastern coast of Taiwan April 3, making it the strongest earthquake in 25 years.

According to the Central Weather Bureau, the epicenter of the earthquake was offshore about 18km south of Hualien’s eastern district and 138km from Taipei.

It’s understood that the effects of the earthquake were also felt in Japan and off the eastern coast of mainland China, including in Shanghai, Suzhou, Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Shantou.

Tsunami warnings in China, the Philippines, and Japan
Natural disaster tsunami warnings have also been issued in those islands as well as in mainland China and the Philippines.

Meanwhile, the Japan Meteorological Agency has issued tsunami warnings for Miyakojima and Okinawa islands, with waves as high as three meters expected to occur soon.

1 fatality and dozens injured so far
Quoting Reuters reports, at least one fatality has been reported and over 50 others injured due to building collapses.

The Taiwan Fire Department said one person was killed, believed to be trapped in a collapsed building in the inland area, east of Hualien.

20 trapped victims and 26 buildings collapsed
In the disaster, 26 buildings were reported to have collapsed, trapping approximately 20 people, and rescue efforts are underway.

Footage of the earthquake also went viral on social media, grabbing attention worldwide, including in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MET Malaysia) in a recent statement stated that there is no threat of a tsunami occurring in the country.