Taiwan Earthquake: Rescue attempts continue

A powerful earthquake measuring 7.4 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Taiwan on Tuesday, leading to significant damage and loss of life.

Taiwanese officials have confirmed at least four fatalities, while rescue operations are underway to extract individuals from collapsed buildings.

The earthquake initially triggered tsunami warnings across the island and neighboring regions, although some of these warnings were later retracted. Seismology officials have labeled this event as Taiwan’s most potent earthquake in 25 years.

According to the US Geological Survey, the epicenter of the earthquake was located approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) south of Taiwan in its Hualien city.

In the capital city of Taiwan, the earthquake caused substantial shaking, resulting in the collapse of long metal poles at a construction site for a skyscraper. The extent of damage caused by this incident remains unknown.

Rescue efforts are ongoing, with a focus on reaching individuals trapped in various locations, including tunnels in Hualien such as the Renqing Tunnel and Qingshui Tunnel. Notably, the National Fire Agency reported that numerous individuals are trapped in these tunnels.

In Hualien, at least 12 individuals were rescued from the Uranus Building. Additionally, in Taipei, two people were successfully rescued from a trapped elevator in the Zhongshan District, while seven others were rescued from a collapsed building in Xindian District in New Taipei City.

The aftermath of the earthquake has prompted a swift response from emergency services as they strive to provide assistance to those affected by the disaster.