Taiwan was hit by a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 5.9 on the Richter scale on Tuesday, sending tremors throughout the island, including the capital city of Taipei. The sudden seismic activity has raised concerns about the safety of residents and the potential for aftershocks in the region.
The earthquake's epicenter was located at sea, approximately 120.2 kilometers east of Hualien County Hall, at a depth of 5.7 kilometers, according to Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau (CWA).
The intensity of the earthquake, which measures its actual impact, was most pronounced in several areas, including Yilan, Hualien, Hsinchu, Chiayi, Yunlin, and Changhua counties, as well as New Taipei. In these regions, it reached a level 3 on Taiwan's 7-tier intensity scale.
Furthermore, the earthquake registered an intensity level of 2 in several urban areas, including Taichung, Taipei, Keelung, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Chiayi, Tainan, and Kaohsiung cities. It also affected Nantou, Miaoli, and Taitung counties, as reported by the CWA.
While this earthquake raised concerns and prompted residents to take precautions, the absence of immediate damage or injuries is a relief. Nevertheless, authorities and emergency response teams remain on alert, ready to provide assistance should the situation change or aftershocks occur.
Earthquakes are a common occurrence in Taiwan, which is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it susceptible to seismic activity. The CWA will continue to monitor the situation, and residents are advised to stay informed and prepared for any developments related to this earthquake.
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