Rescuers in Taiwan are conducting rescue operations to locate a dozen people still missing after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck the island’s eastern Hualien county. The death toll from the earthquake has increased to 12, with two more bodies being found in the mountains. The earthquake caused significant damage to roads and led to rocks falling down mountains, leaving many people stranded in Taroko National Park, a popular hiking area. The search and rescue efforts have been complicated by the risk of landslides and intermittent rain, as well as ongoing aftershocks that continue to be felt.
The rescue teams are facing a race against time as they strive to make the most of the crucial first 72 hours following the earthquake. Aftershocks have been frequent, numbering in the hundreds since the initial tremor. The Central Disaster Response Center reports that as of Friday afternoon, there were 1,123 people injured, 634 trapped, and 13 still missing. Among the missing are three foreigners from Australia and Canada. The majority of those trapped are located at a hotel and activity center inside the national park, and efforts are underway to provide them with essential supplies until they can be safely evacuated.
In Hualien, efforts are underway to return the city to normalcy, with most places functioning as usual. This reflects Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening earthquake preparedness and response measures since a devastating 7.6-magnitude earthquake in 1999 that claimed thousands of lives. Demolition work has commenced on a midrise building that was severely damaged and tilted dangerously after the recent earthquake. A ceremony was held in honor of the one person who lost their life in the building, a woman who had ventured back inside following the quake to save her cat. The rescue and recovery operations continue, with helicopters being utilized to evacuate those who are injured and in need of assistance.
As rescue efforts continue in Hualien, the focus remains on locating the missing individuals and ensuring the safety of those who are trapped. Helicopters are playing a crucial role in supplying food and water to those stranded inside the national park, while also transporting the injured and families with children to safety. The local authorities, including Hualien Mayor Wei Chia-yen, are working closely with rescue teams to coordinate the operation and address the evolving situation. Despite the challenges posed by aftershocks and adverse weather conditions, the dedication and professionalism of the rescue workers are evident as they strive to bring all those affected by the earthquake to safety.
The residents and officials in Hualien are coming together to support one another and facilitate the rescue efforts in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake. As Taiwan grapples with the aftermath of one of the most severe tremors in decades, the spirit of resilience and community solidarity is evident. The lessons learned from past earthquakes, such as the 1999 disaster, have informed Taiwan’s disaster preparedness measures, enabling a more efficient and coordinated response to the current crisis. The international community has also extended support and assistance, with countries like Australia and Canada contributing to the search and rescue operations. The coming days will be critical as the focus shifts towards recovery and rebuilding in the affected areas, with a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all those impacted by the earthquake.
