On Monday, May 5, 2025, Taiwan experienced a series of earthquakes, the most significant of which registered a magnitude of 5.9 at 6:53 PM. The quake struck at a depth of 6.6 kilometers, with its epicenter located approximately 33.7 kilometers east-southeast of Hualien County. This seismic event was felt across nearly the entire island, prompting reports of tremors from cities as far away as Taipei and Taichung.
Earlier in the evening, at 6:09 PM, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake occurred, also in the eastern sea area, with a depth of 6.1 kilometers. This was followed by a series of smaller quakes, including a magnitude 4.3 earthquake at 7:15 PM, centered 12.3 kilometers west-northwest of Hualien County.
According to the Central Weather Bureau of Taiwan, the earthquakes are attributed to the movement of the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate. The director of the Seismological Center, Chiu Jun-da, indicated that the 5.9 quake was the main shock, while the earlier tremors were classified as foreshocks. He mentioned, "The 5.9 earthquake is a shallow earthquake, and we do not rule out the possibility of aftershocks between magnitudes 5 and 5.5 in the next three days." This prediction aligns with the geological history of the region, which is known for its seismic activity.
Reports from local authorities confirmed that within one hour of the initial quake, seven earthquakes were recorded in the Hualien area. The tremors were strong enough to cause items hanging from office ceilings to sway, highlighting the intensity of the seismic activity.
In response to the earthquakes, the Central Weather Bureau issued a national-level alert for areas including Yilan and Hualien counties, stating that significant tremors could trigger further seismic events. The seismic waves from the earthquakes were particularly felt in the Taipei Basin, where the resonance effect amplified the tremors.
As the day progressed, additional aftershocks were reported, including a magnitude 4.9 quake at 6:10 PM and smaller quakes measuring 4.1 and 4.4 in the following minutes. The epicenters of these aftershocks were all located in the eastern sea area of Taiwan, continuing the trend of seismic activity in the region.
Chiu Jun-da explained that the earthquakes are a result of the ongoing pressure between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate, a common cause of seismic events in Taiwan. He noted, "The region experiences frequent earthquakes, ranging from shallow to deep seismic activities, and this is part of the natural geological processes at play here."
The earthquakes have raised concerns among residents, particularly those in Hualien, who are accustomed to tremors but remain vigilant after such significant seismic events. Many locals expressed their fears about the potential for stronger aftershocks, especially with the weather department's warnings still in effect.
In the past five years, the area surrounding Hualien has seen a total of 386 earthquakes registering magnitudes of 4 or above. The largest earthquake recorded in this vicinity was a magnitude 7.3 quake that occurred on April 3, 2024, just 21 kilometers from the epicenter of the recent quakes.
Despite the tremors, local infrastructure has largely remained intact, and no major damages or injuries have been reported as of yet. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely, with emergency services on standby in case of further seismic activity.
As Taiwan braces for the possibility of more aftershocks, residents are reminded to stay informed and prepared. The Central Weather Bureau continues to provide updates on the seismic situation, urging the public to heed safety precautions in the event of future quakes. The geological characteristics of the region mean that while earthquakes are a common occurrence, the unpredictability of their magnitude and timing keeps residents on alert.
In summary, the seismic events of May 5, 2025, serve as a reminder of Taiwan's position along the Pacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic activity is a part of daily life. While the immediate danger may have passed, the potential for aftershocks remains, and the community is urged to remain vigilant.
