Image Credits - AsiaOne
In a series of seismic events that rattled eastern Taiwan, three earthquakes struck off the coast of Hualien County on Friday morning, as reported by the Central Weather Administration (CWA). The first 5.1 magnitude tremor took place at 9:35 a.m. (Taiwan)
According to CWA data, its epicentre is positioned at sea, approximately 31.2 kilometres south of Hualien County Hall, at a depth of 10 kilometres.
Following closely, a second quake of magnitude 5.0 occurred at 9:37 a.m., originating from a point 15.2 kilometres south of Hualien County Hall beneath the ocean’s surface. Both of these earthquakes recorded a peak intensity of 4 on Taiwan’s 7-tier intensity scale, with Hualien bearing the brunt of their impact.
Subsequently, a third quake, registering 4.1 on the Richter scale, shook the area at 9:40 a.m.,(Taiwan) with its epicentre mirroring the previous two at sea, 14.7 kilometres south of Hualien County Hall, albeit at a shallower depth of 4.2 kilometres. Despite its lower magnitude, this seismic event also prompted a level 3 intensity reading in Hualien
No immediate reports of damage or injuries surfaced in the aftermath of these tremors. However, the seismic activity underscores the region’s vulnerability to earthquakes, with Hualien County being particularly prone due to its proximity to major tectonic fault lines. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for potential aftershocks.