In the early hours of April 3, 2024, a powerful earthquake struck near Taiwan, measuring a preliminary magnitude of 7.5. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued tsunami warnings due to the quake’s impact on the ocean’s surface. The first tsunami wave, measuring 30 cm, hit the coast.
Tragically, the earthquake resulted in the deaths of at least 4 people and the collapse of 26 buildings in Taiwan, with about 20 individuals trapped beneath the rubble. Rescue operations are currently underway to save those trapped and assess the extent of the damage.
The earthquake, the strongest to hit Taiwan in decades, also caused a series of aftershocks, further challenging rescue efforts. Despite the devastation, Taiwan’s stringent building regulations and disaster preparedness measures have helped mitigate the disaster’s impact.
Japan has pledged its support to Taiwan, with Prime Minister Fumio Kishida expressing readiness to provide any necessary assistance. This solidarity highlights the close ties between the two nations, with Kishida referring to Taiwan as Japan’s “neighbor across the sea.”
In response to the earthquake, Asian markets have shown some volatility, with MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan falling by 0.7%. Japan’s Nikkei and Taiwan’s shares also experienced declines following the earthquake, reflecting investor concerns.
As the rescue and recovery efforts continue, the focus remains on saving lives and rebuilding communities affected by this tragic event.
