A powerful earthquake hit off the coast of eastern Taiwan on Wednesday morning, leading officials to say at least at least nine people were killed and hundreds of others were injured due to the natural disaster.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) measured the earthquake at 7.4 magnitude, while Taiwan’s monitoring agency pegged it at 7.2, which would make it the strongest tremor to rock the island in 25 years, according to the Associated Press.
News reports said buildings suffered damage, and dozens of people became stuck or lost in places such as quarries and national parks. Search-and-rescue teams have been deployed to reach people who are trapped or stranded.
Multiple aftershocks followed the original quake, which led to tsunami warnings in places such as Japan and the Philippines. As reported by The Washington Post, Shanghai and China’s southeastern provinces even felt the earthquake.
“Disaster response is underway following this morning’s 7.2 earthquake and aftershocks,” Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said in a post to X. “I’m deeply grateful for the messages of support we have received from around the world, and to our first responders for their life-saving work.”
Tsai added, “My heart is with everyone affected. Please keep in touch with loved ones, and stay safe.”
