07 Feb 2018 | 02:01 PM UTC
Taiwan: February 6 earthquake leaves five dead, 254 injured /update 2
6.4-magnitude earthquake in Taiwan leaves at least five people dead, 254 others injured, and 88 still missing as of February 7
Event
A 6.4-magnitude earthquake rattled Taiwan's eastern coast on Tuesday, February 6. As of Wednesday, at least five people have been confirmed dead, 254 injured, and 88 missing. The earthquake caused the collapse of at least four buildings in Hualian district; other buildings and roads, as well as the Hualian bridge, were also damaged. Most of the people reported missing are believed to be trapped inside damaged buildings. Some 830 people remained in emergency shelters as of Wednesday morning.
Context
According to the US Geological Survey, the earthquake struck around roughly 22 km (14 mi) north-northeast of Hualian.
Several earthquakes have shaken Taiwan's eastern coast in recent days. On February 4, a 6.1-magnitude earthquake also struck near Hualian.
Advice
Individuals in the affected area are advised to closely monitor the situation, adhere to any instructions or advice issued by the local authorities, and be prepared for aftershocks.
In the event of an earthquake, take shelter under a table or crouched in a corner (away from exterior walls) if indoors and protect your head with your arms. If outdoors, move away from buildings and other tall structures; if driving, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so, away from tall structures. If caught under debris following an earthquake, keep all movements to a minimum and cover your mouth to avoid inhaling dust. After a major earthquake, check buildings for damage, including downed power lines or damaged gas lines, and evacuate until the building is declared safe. Only use your telephone in case of urgency so as to leave communication lines open for emergency services.
