A magnitude 6.1 earthquake struck off the coast of Yilan County on the evening of May 1, sending tremors felt across much of Taiwan and prompting safety checks and alerts from authorities.
According to the Central Weather Administration, the quake occurred at 8:39 PM with its epicenter located offshore, approximately 38.7 kilometers east-northeast of Yilan County. The tremor originated at a depth of 98.3 kilometers, classifying it as a relatively deep earthquake.
Widespread Shaking Felt
The earthquake was felt nationwide, with several areas experiencing stronger shaking. Intensity level 4 was recorded in parts of southern Yilan, as well as in regions such as Guanxi Township, Hehuanshan, and Yanliao. Many monitoring stations in northern Taiwan registered intensity level 3 shaking.
Authorities also issued two rounds of national alerts. The first covered northern areas including Taipei and Yilan, while the second extended warnings to Taoyuan City and Hsinchu.
Cause of the Earthquake
Seismologists explained that the quake was linked to tectonic activity in eastern Taiwan, specifically within a subduction zone. The event was caused by the interaction between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate. The Philippine Sea Plate is moving northwest and descending beneath the Eurasian Plate, creating seismic activity in the region.
Compared to a stronger magnitude 7.1 earthquake recorded on December 27 last year, this latest tremor occurred deeper underground, which influenced the way it was felt across the island.
Aftershocks Likely
Officials from the earthquake monitoring center warned that aftershocks ranging from magnitude 5.0 to 5.5 may occur within the next three days. Residents are advised to remain alert and monitor updates from authorities.
No Damage Reported in Key Facilities
Following the quake, Taiwan’s nuclear safety regulators conducted inspections of major power plants. Facilities such as the Taiwan Nuclear Power Plant No. 1, Taiwan Nuclear Power Plant No. 2, and Taiwan Nuclear Power Plant No. 3 were reported to be operating normally, with no abnormalities detected.
Rail Operations Adjusted
The Taiwan Railways Administration implemented precautionary measures following the earthquake. Train operations in several sections, including routes between eastern and northern Taiwan, were adjusted in accordance with safety protocols for areas experiencing intensity levels 3 and 4 shaking.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge the public to stay informed and prepared in case of further seismic activity.