The largest earthquake ever recorded in Tainan had a magnitude of 5.4. Some high-speed rail trains from Nangang to Zhuoying were delayed[আপডেট]Life Central News Agency CNA

An earthquake measuring 5.4 on the Richter scale struck Tainan City at 8:40 a.m. on November 22, 2024. The earthquake had a depth of 7.7 kilometers. Data from the Central Meteorological Administration confirmed the details.

At 9:13 p.m., the high-speed rail reported delays on some trains between Nangang and Zhuying due to the earthquake. The weather administration issued alerts for Yunlin County, Chiayi County, and Tainan City. Residents were advised to be cautious of strong tremors and to practice safety measures: get down, cover, and hold.

Shortly after the main quake, at 8:43 a.m., a smaller earthquake of magnitude 3.5 occurred at a depth of 10.9 kilometers. Its epicenter was located 24.5 kilometers north of Tainan City in Madu District. Another quake with a magnitude of 4.3 was reported later in Tainan, with a depth of 9.7 kilometers and a maximum tremor level of 22.8 kilometers.

– What safety measures should residents take during an earthquake according to Dr. Lisa Chen?

Interview with Dr. Lisa Chen, Seismologist at the Taiwan Institute of Earth Sciences

News Directory 3: Thank you for joining us, Dr. Chen. Can you provide an overview of the earthquake that struck Tainan City on November 22, 2024?

Dr. Lisa Chen: Thank you for having me. The earthquake measuring 5.4 on the Richter scale that occurred in Tainan City at 8:40 a.m. was significant, primarily due to its depth of just 7.7 kilometers. Shallow earthquakes like this one can cause more pronounced tremors and potential damage in populated areas.

News Directory 3: What can you tell us about the aftershocks reported shortly after the main quake?

Dr. Lisa Chen: Yes, shortly after the initial quake, Tainan experienced a smaller earthquake of magnitude 3.5 at 8:43 a.m., located about 24.5 kilometers north in Madu District. Additionally, another quake with a magnitude of 4.3 was detected afterward. This pattern is typical; after a significant earthquake, we often experience aftershocks as the tectonic plates adjust.

News Directory 3: The Central Meteorological Administration has issued alerts in several counties. How should residents prepare during such seismic events?

Dr. Lisa Chen: The weather administration’s alerts are crucial. Residents should heed the advice to stay cautious and practise safety measures. The “Get Down, Cover, and Hold On” approach is essential. Find sturdy furniture to hide under and protect your head and neck. It’s also important to have an emergency kit prepared for such situations.

News Directory 3: We noticed delays reported by the high-speed rail following the quake. What impact do earthquakes usually have on transportation?

Dr. Lisa Chen: Earthquakes can lead to immediate inspections of infrastructure to ensure safety. This can often result in delays and interruptions in services, as we saw with the high-speed rail between Nangang and Zhuying. Monitoring and maintenance are crucial for public transportation systems, especially in regions prone to seismic activity.

News Directory 3: what can you tell us about the seismic activity in Taiwan overall?

Dr. Lisa Chen: Taiwan is located in a seismically active region due to the convergence of the Eurasian and Philippine Sea plates. As such, we frequently experience earthquakes of varying magnitudes. Continuous monitoring and research are essential not only for public safety but also for understanding the geological changes occurring in our region.

News Directory 3: Thank you, Dr. Chen, for your insights and expertise on this important topic.

Dr. Lisa Chen: You’re welcome. Stay safe and be prepared.

Stay informed and follow safety recommendations during seismic events.