7.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Taiwan
The most damaging earthquake to strike Hualien, Taiwan in 25 years has left extreme destruction in its wake. Amidst the damage to 125 buildings; 26 collapsed, with 9 confirmed fatalities and 882 injuries reported. Roadways have sustained damage from the tremors and landslides triggered by them. Rail systems across Taiwan have been temporarily suspended and 354,534 households remain without power.
Japan has also mandated precautionary evacuations for the nearby coastal areas, like Okinawa Prefecture. Operations at Naha Airport have also resumed after a temporary suspension, though the Okinawa Expressway remains closed at this time. Ferries, also, have suspended operation in the area for the time being.
9 aftershocks above a 5.0 magnitude have been reported from the epicenter. Numerous weaker aftershocks have also been recorded and more are anticipated in the coming days.
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