Taiwan Braces for Aftermath as Powerful 7.0-Magnitude Quake Hits Northeast Coast

A powerful 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan's northeastern coast late Saturday, causing minor damage and disruptions to some households. The epicenter of the quake, which occurred at 11:05 p.m. local time, was approximately 18.6 miles east of Yilan County, according to the Central Weather Administration. This was the strongest earthquake in Taiwan since April 2024, when several buildings collapsed and 20 people were killed. The earthquake was felt strongly in the capital city Taipei, with a moderate intensity level of 4 recorded on a scale from 0 to 7. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) reported that its staff had returned to campuses in the Hsinchu science park after being evacuated as a precautionary measure. The company's research and development center is located in Hsinchu, where it produces less advanced chips. Despite the quake's strength, major infrastructure, including highways and high-speed rail, were operating normally, according to Taiwanese authorities. However, nearly 3,500 households in eastern Taiwan experienced brief power outages. The Central Emergency Operations Center reported no major casualties or damage as of 12:45 a.m. local time, although some sporadic incidents, such as gas leaks and minor building damage, were reported. Taipower confirmed that all power plants were operating normally.