A 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck off the eastern coast of Taiwan today, shaking buildings in the capital, Taipei, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and local media.
Agence France-Presse reported that the tremor occurred at a depth of approximately 31 kilometers, about 71 kilometers south of Hualien city. Despite the noticeable shaking, Taiwanese authorities confirmed there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.
The Taitung Fire Department also reported no incidents of injuries or structural harm. “When the earthquake struck, the computer screen and fan shook violently,” a firefighter said, describing the tremor as “much stronger than previous ones.”
Taiwan sits on the boundary of two tectonic plates along the Pacific Ring of Fire—one of the most seismically active regions on Earth. Earthquakes are common on the island, with some being significantly destructive.
In April 2024, Taiwan experienced a 7.4-magnitude quake—the strongest in 25 years—which resulted in 17 fatalities and widespread damage.
