Taiwan: Disruptions ongoing after magnitude-6.6 offshore earthquake occurs near eastern coast of Taiwan early March 23 /update 1

Event

Authorities in Taiwan are continuing their response to a magnitude-6.6 offshore earthquake that occurred near the eastern coast at around 01:41 CST March 23. The epicenter was about 70 km (43 miles) south of Hualien City. Reports indicate that one person was injured in Taitung County. A road is also partially closed in the county's Changbin Township due to debris from landslides. Temporary power outages were reported at more than 1,200 households on Zhuangjing Road and Huayi, Huaer, and Huashan streets in Pingtung City. The nearly completed new Yuxing Bridge in Yuli Township, Hualien County, has collapsed. The old Yuxing Bridge is likely to be reopened from the afternoon of March 23 if no structural problems are detected. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas.

Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. As of the afternoon of March 23, more than 50 aftershocks have occurred, including a magnitude-5.8 aftershock at 09:43 CST and a magnitude-5.7 aftershock at 12:29 CST. The event did not prompt any tsunami advisories.

Advice

Plan accordingly for aftershocks. Consider vacating multistory buildings if operating in affected areas until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Allow additional time for air and road travel, as aftershocks may prompt brief disruptions. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving in hilly areas in the affected region due to potential landslides.