A major, 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck the eastern coast of Taiwan on Wednesday, according to the United States Geological Survey.
The temblor happened at 7:58 a.m. Taipei time about 11 miles southwest of Hualien City, Taiwan, data from the agency shows.
As seismologists review available data, they may revise the earthquake’s reported magnitude. Additional information collected about the earthquake may also prompt U.S.G.S. scientists to update the shake-severity map.
Aftershocks in the region
An aftershock is usually a smaller earthquake that follows a larger one in the same general area. Aftershocks are typically minor adjustments along the portion of a fault that slipped at the time of the initial earthquake.
Quakes and aftershocks within 100 miles
Aftershocks can occur days, weeks or even years after the first earthquake. These events can be of equal or larger magnitude to the initial earthquake, and they can continue to affect already damaged locations.
Source: United States Geological Survey | Notes: Shaking categories are based on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. When aftershock data is available, the corresponding maps and charts include earthquakes within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. All times above are Taipei time. Shake data is as of Tuesday, April 2 at 8:14 p.m. Eastern. Aftershocks data is as of Tuesday, April 2 at 8:58 p.m. Eastern.
