A 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck a mountainous, rural area in southern Taiwan on January 21, causing injuries and property damage, according to local authorities. The quake, recorded at a depth of 9.4 kilometers, had its epicenter in Dapu Township, Chiayi County, as reported by Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration.
The tremor struck at 12:17 a.m. local time and was also felt in Taipei, where buildings shook for nearly a minute. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded a slightly lower magnitude of 6.0 for the earthquake.
In Tainan’s Nanxi District, the ceilings of several homes collapsed, trapping six people, including a child, who were later rescued by local firefighters. The Zhuwei Bridge on a provincial highway also sustained damage. The health ministry reported a total of 27 injuries, while two individuals were temporarily trapped in elevators, and another suffered minor injuries from falling debris.
CCTV footage from Chiayi City, 40 kilometers north of the epicenter, captured shelves swaying and goods falling in a local nut shop. Power outages were reported in some villages, and minor structural damage was noted. Despite the damage, authorities confirmed there were no major casualties.
Chipmaker TSMC, a key player in Taiwan’s tech industry, evacuated staff from its factories in central and southern Taiwan. All personnel were reported safe. The Tainan Science Park, home to major technology factories, also evacuated buildings as a precaution.
Taiwan lies near the junction of two tectonic plates and is highly prone to earthquakes. The island has experienced devastating tremors in the past, including the 1999 7.3-magnitude earthquake that killed over 2,000 people and the 2016 earthquake in Tainan, which claimed more than 100 lives.
To mitigate future risks, Taiwan has updated its building codes to incorporate quake-resistant construction methods. However, older structures remain a concern, with ongoing efforts to reinforce buildings constructed before the updated regulations.
Taiwan’s advanced early warning system alerted residents within seconds of the quake, showcasing the island’s commitment to disaster preparedness. As rescue teams continue their work, authorities are assessing the extent of damage and ensuring the safety of affected residents.
No fatalities have been reported, but aftershocks are expected, prompting residents to remain vigilant.