In recent days, Taiwan has experienced a series of seismic events that have left the island nation on edge. Let’s delve into the details of these earthquakes, their impact, and the geological context.
The Earthquakes
Initial Catastrophic Earthquake (April 3, 2024):
A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.4 hit around 18 kilometers south-southwest of Hualien City in Taiwan on April 3, 2024, at 07:58:11 NST (23:58:11 UTC on April 2).
Unfortunately, the earthquake led to the deaths of 17 individuals and left more than 1,100 people injured.
This earthquake in Taiwan is the most powerful one since the Jiji earthquake of 1999.
Three aftershocks above 6.0 in magnitude were noticeably observed after the main earthquake.
Series of Post-Earthquake Tremors (April 22, 2024):
After the first earthquake, Taiwan went through a series of aftershocks.
On the morning of April 23 NST, two larger aftershocks (with magnitudes of 6.1 and 6.0) occurred after a magnitude 5.8 aftershock hit on April 22.
These additional aftershocks contributed to the residents’ anxiety and uncertainty.
Context within the field of geology
Geological environment:
Taiwan is situated in a complicated area where the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate come together.
The Luzon Arc is created by the subduction of the oceanic crust of the Eurasian Plate underneath the Philippine Sea Plate, located south of Taiwan.
In Taiwan, the oceanic crust has gone under, and the arc is now hitting the continental crust of the Eurasian Plate.
North of Taiwan, the Philippine Sea Plate moves under the Eurasian Plate, forming the Ryukyu Arc.
Size and strength:
The Taiwan Central Weather Administration (CWA) reported the local magnitude of the first earthquake as 7.2, whereas the US Geological Survey (USGS) stated it as Mw 7.4.
681 aftershocks occurred after the initial earthquake.
Hualien City experienced a CWA seismic intensity of 6+ while Taipei experienced a 5- intensity.
Tremors were detected in multiple areas, including sections of China and Japan.
Conclusion
Taiwan’s resilience in the face of these seismic challenges is commendable. As the island continues to grapple with aftershocks, it underscores the importance of preparedness, infrastructure resilience, and community support. Let us hope for safety and stability in the days ahead.
