17 Oct 2022 | 01:57 PM UTC
Taiwan: Magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurs in the Luzon Strait at around 21:20 Oct. 17
Magnitude-5.1 earthquake occurs in the Luzon Strait south of Taiwan at around 21:20 Oct. 17. No immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Event
A magnitude-5.1 offshore earthquake occurred in the Strait of Luzon south of Taiwan at around 21:20 CST Oct. 17. The epicenter was about 82 km (51 miles) southeast of Hengchun, Taiwan. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 11 km (7 miles), and light shaking was probably felt throughout parts of southern Taiwan, as well as the Babuyan and Batanes islands in the Philippines. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light 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.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
