24 Feb 2024 | 05:33 AM UTC
Taiwan: Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs in Philippine Sea, south of Hualien City at around 12:37 Feb. 24
Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs near Hualien City, Taiwan, at around 12:37 Feb. 24. No immediate reports of damage or casualties.
A magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurred in the Philippine Sea at around 12:37 Feb. 24. The epicenter was about 49 km (30 miles) south of Hualien City, Hualien County. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 10 km (6 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of eastern Taiwan. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
