Late on Monday and early on Tuesday, Taiwan’s quake-stricken eastern county of Hualien experienced numerous aftershocks, but only minor damage was reported, and fortunately, no casualties. Major chipmaker TSMC also confirmed no impact on its operations.
Hualien, hit by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake on April 3, resulting in at least 14 fatalities. Since then, over 1,000 aftershocks have been recorded.
The tremors were felt across northern, eastern, and western Taiwan, causing buildings to sway, including in the capital Taipei. The most significant quake measured 6.3 on the Richter scale, all occurring at shallow depths.
According to Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration, the approximately 180 earthquakes starting on Monday afternoon were aftershocks from the April 3 quake. Seismological Center Director Wu Chien-fu warned of further aftershocks, albeit potentially not as intense, as the energy continues to be released.
With heavy rain forecasted for the entire week, residents of Hualien are advised to brace for possible disruptions. The local fire department reported additional damage to two already uninhabited buildings, but fortunately, no casualties were reported.
TSMC, the world’s largest contract chipmaker, assured normal operations despite evacuating some staff as a precaution. Investors remained unfazed, with TSMC’s shares rising on Tuesday morning.
Taiwan, situated near the convergence of two tectonic plates, is susceptible to earthquakes. The country has experienced significant seismic events in the past, including a deadly quake in southern Taiwan in 2016 and a devastating 7.3 magnitude quake in 1999.
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