By Jessica Park
Taiwan recently experienced its most powerful earthquake in nearly 25 years, striking just before 8 a.m. on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. The quake rocked the island during the morning rush hour, resulting in considerable damage and casualties. Understanding the causes, impact, and safety measures associated with earthquakes is important for mitigating risks and ensuring preparedness.
Causes of Earthquakes in Taiwan: Taiwan has a history of strong quake activity. Taiwan’s location along the Pacific “Ring of Fire” exposes it to frequent seismic activity (see the right-hand side picture). This geological phenomenon arises from the interaction between two tectonic plates, the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate, which may lead to sudden releases in the form of earthquakes. The mountainous terrain further emphasizes ground shaking and exacerbates the risk of secondary hazards such as landslides.
Impact of the Recent Earthquake: The recent earthquake, measuring between 7.2 and 7.4 on the Richeter scale, had profound consequences for Taiwan. It claimed lives, caused injuires, and inflicted widespread damage to infrastructure. The epicenter, situated off the coast of Hualien County, experienced severe structural damage, with buildings collapsing and roads being rendered impassable. Landslides and falling debris posed additional thread, particularly in mountainous regions near the epicenter. Just over 150 kilometers (93 miles) away in the capital of Taipei, tiles fell from older buildings, and schools evacuated students to sports fields as aftershocks followed (see the picture on the left side). As of now, the death toll has risen to 13 people, with 1,133 injured and six individuals still missing.
In light of recent events, it’s crucial for us as high school students to understand safety measures during earthquakes:
Safety Measures for Earthquake Preparedness:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: When an earthquake strikes, drop to the floor immediately to avoid being thrown off balance. Take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, such as a table, and hold on until the shaking stops. Protect your head and neck with one arm while holding onto the table leg with the other.
- Do Not Run Outside: Running outside during an earthquake increases the risk of injury from falling debris. It’s safer to shelter indoors and follow the drop, cover, and hold on protocol.
- Do Not Stand in Doorways: Doorways are not safer during earthquakes and do not provide adequate protection. Instead, seek shelter under a sturdy piece of furniture.
- Avoid Making Phone Calls: After an earthquake, refrain from making unnecessary phone calls as they can overload communication networks. Instead, use text messages, which are more likely to get through.
- Call 911 for Emergencies Only: Unless facing a true emergency, avoid calling 911 immediately after an earthquake to ensure that the line remains open for those in urgent need.
What other things can we do? By understanding the causes of earthquakes, the impact they can have, and the appropriate safety measures to take, we can better prepare themselves and contribute to a safer community in the event of future seismic activity.
