SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News/AP) — In a remarkable display of resilience, Taiwan weathered a powerful earthquake on Wednesday morning, the strongest the island has experienced in a quarter-century.
The seismic event, registering at a magnitude of 7.4, rocked the island of over 23 million people, triggering tsunami warnings across the region, including Japan, China, and the Philippines.
Despite the intensity of the quake, which lasted for over a minute, the island’s robust earthquake preparedness measures, ingrained in building codes for the past 50 years, proved instrumental in mitigating casualties. As of the latest reports, only 10 individuals in the hardest-hit region of Hualien County have lost their lives, underscoring Taiwan’s proactive approach to disaster preparedness.
In the aftermath of the earthquake, a series of aftershocks have rattled the island, yet the spirit of resilience prevails as rescue efforts continue unabated. Dozens of individuals remain trapped in the epicenter of the quake, but hope shines through as emergency helicopter units execute daring rescues.
Thursday morning, a group of individuals trapped on a ledge in an open-air quarry were successfully rescued after enduring hours of uncertainty.
Amidst the challenges posed by this natural disaster, Taiwan’s unwavering resolve and effective emergency response mechanisms serve as a beacon of hope, highlighting the power of preparation and solidarity in the face of adversity.
