TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Following a 7.2 magnitude earthquake on Wednesday, Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen and Premier Chen Chien-jen paused scheduled events to lead an emergency briefing at Hualien County's Central Emergency Operations Center at 10 a.m. This response came after the island experienced its largest quake since the 1999 Jiji Earthquake early that morning.
During the briefing, President Tsai urged the public and officials to stay alert for further updates, aftershocks, and official communications regarding the earthquake. She emphasized the importance of verifying information amidst widespread online speculation about class suspensions not officially confirmed by relevant authorities.
As reports of structural collapses and injuries emerged, search and rescue operations expanded throughout Hualien and neighboring regions. In Taipei, the MRT system experienced temporary shutdowns, ranging from 30 to 60 minutes, with the New Taipei City circular line sustaining significant damage, indicating prolonged service disruptions.
Rescue efforts are ongoing in eastern Taiwan as communities anticipate potential aftershocks from the significant seismic event.