Taiwan was recently hit by its most powerful earthquake in 25 years, resulting in at least nine casualties and numerous injuries, as well as damage to buildings and highways. Despite being prone to earthquakes, Taiwan has managed to keep the impact of these disasters relatively contained due to its excellent earthquake preparedness. Situated along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” Taiwan experiences frequent seismic activity caused by the interactions of two tectonic plates, the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate. The mountainous landscape of the region can amplify ground shaking, potentially leading to landslides and other damaging effects.
The earthquake that struck Taiwan on Wednesday measured 7.2 according to Taiwan’s earthquake monitoring agency, while the U.S. Geological Survey recorded it as a 7.4. Despite causing some damage in Hualien, the capital Taipei remained relatively unscathed. Taiwan’s earthquake preparedness is considered among the most advanced in the world, with strict building codes, a well-developed seismological network, and public education campaigns on earthquake safety. The government continually updates building regulations to ensure quake resistance, offers subsidies for residents to check their buildings’ safety, and conducts earthquake drills in schools and workplaces.
In recent years, Taiwan has experienced numerous earthquakes, with about 2,000 earthquakes registering a magnitude of 4.0 or higher since 1980. The most devastating earthquake occurred in 1999 with a magnitude of 7.7, resulting in thousands of deaths and widespread destruction. The high level of seismic activity in the region is expected to continue for millions of years to come, underscoring the importance of preparedness and resilience in face of ongoing seismic risks. Following a deadly quake in 2018 that collapsed buildings in Hualien County, Taiwan continues to prioritize earthquake safety measures to mitigate potential catastrophic damage and loss of life.
Taiwan’s resilience to earthquakes is attributed to its implementation of strict building codes, a robust seismological network, and public education campaigns on earthquake safety. Following a tragic incident in 2016 where a high-rise building collapsed in Tainan, resulting in numerous casualties, individuals involved in the construction were found guilty of negligence. Taiwan has been proactive in enforcing regulations to ensure buildings are quake-resistant and has stepped up efforts to educate the public on earthquake safety measures. The government also provides subsidies for earthquake resistance checks, conducts drills, and disseminates earthquake alerts through various media channels.
Despite Taiwan’s vulnerability to earthquakes, the country’s investment in earthquake preparedness has contributed to limiting the impact of these disasters. With a history of seismic activity and a geographically precarious location, Taiwan remains vigilant in its efforts to enhance resilience and readiness for earthquakes. Through building regulations, public education campaigns, and earthquake drills, Taiwan continues to prioritize safety and preparedness to mitigate the potential for catastrophic damage and loss of life in the event of future earthquakes.
