A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan’s eastern coast on Wednesday, the US Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed. The epicenter was located in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 25 kilometers south-southeast of Hualien County Hall, at a depth of 15.5 kilometers.
The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings in southern Japan, specifically for the coastal areas of Miyakojima, Yaeyama regions, and the main island of Okinawa. Authorities have urged residents to evacuate to higher ground immediately. Forecasters predict tsunami waves of up to 3 meters could reach these areas.
Taiwan also experienced significant shaking, with intensity levels reaching 5+ in Yilan and Miaoli Counties and 5- in several northern and central cities. Metro systems in Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung have been temporarily suspended.
The Japan Meteorological Agency has pinpointed the earthquake’s epicenter near Taiwan. Updates on the situation are ongoing.
