Powerful Earthquake Off Taiwan Kills Dozens, Injures Hundreds

A powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck off Taiwan’s east coast, killing at least 23 people and injuring more than 200, according to local authorities. The quake caused widespread damage in Hualien, where several buildings collapsed and roads were blocked by landslides, complicating rescue operations.

Emergency crews worked through the rubble on Wednesday in search of dozens of people believed to be trapped. Officials said the full extent of the damage was still being assessed as aftershocks continued to shake the region, raising fears of further collapses and landslides.

The earthquake prompted tsunami warnings across parts of the region, but those alerts were later canceled after authorities determined there was no longer a significant threat. Still, the powerful tremor sent residents rushing into the streets and disrupted transportation and communications in affected areas.

Taiwan’s disaster response teams have been deployed to support rescue and recovery efforts, while hospitals in the region are treating the injured. Authorities warned that the casualty count could rise as search teams reach damaged structures and remote areas cut off by debris.

The quake is among the strongest to hit Taiwan in recent years, underscoring the island’s vulnerability to seismic activity along the Pacific Ring of Fire.