News Update

Taiwan Recovers After Strongest Quake in 25 Years

TAIPEI, Taiwan - April 2, 2024 - Taiwan is in the process of rebuilding after a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck its eastern coast on Wednesday, marking the most potent tremor to hit the island nation in nearly a quarter-century.

The quake inflicted widespread damage, particularly devastating the southeastern city of Hualien, where buildings collapsed, and landslides ensued. Tragically, at least four fatalities have been confirmed, with rescue operations underway to locate survivors.

Fortunately, initial tsunami alerts issued for parts of Japan have been lifted, as only minor waves reached the shores.

Recovery Efforts Underway

Taiwanese authorities are tirelessly evaluating the extent of the damage, securing affected areas, and delivering aid to impacted individuals. Emergency response teams are dedicated to extricating trapped victims and administering medical assistance to the injured.

The seismic event triggered power outages and disruptions to transportation networks, but crews are laboring to reinstate essential services.

Island Nation on Ring of Fire

Taiwan's location along the seismically active "Ring of Fire" in the Pacific Ocean renders it susceptible to earthquakes. This recent occurrence underscores the natural hazards confronting the island.

International Support Pours In

The global community has extended condolences and proffered aid to Taiwan. Neighboring nations and international organizations are dispatching assistance and rescue teams to bolster the recovery endeavors.

Looking Ahead

Though the initial tremors have subsided, Taiwan faces a protracted journey to recovery. Priorities encompass reconstructing damaged infrastructure, assisting displaced residents, and safeguarding the populace in the ensuing weeks and months.

International Students Weather the Quake

International students studying in Taiwan, especially those situated in the affected eastern cities like Hualien or Taitung (located roughly 120 kilometers south of Hualien, renowned for its National Dong Hwa University), may be grappling with heightened concerns following the earthquake. Numerous universities in Taiwan, such as National Cheng Kung University in Tainan (further south, approximately a 300-kilometer journey from Hualien), host dynamic international student communities.

While communication channels may be disrupted due to damaged infrastructure, these students are likely reaching out to loved ones back home, who might be understandably distressed due to the geographical distance and the sensationalized news reports.

Universities Offer Support

Thankfully, universities throughout Taiwan are renowned for their robust support mechanisms for international students. These institutions are expected to furnish regular updates and ensure the well-being of their student populace.

Staying Calm and Informed

It is imperative for international students in Taiwan to prioritize their safety by adhering to the directives of local authorities and remaining well-informed through university channels and official Taiwanese emergency broadcasts.

Here are some key points to remember:

• There is no cause for undue alarm. Taiwanese authorities possess extensive experience in managing earthquakes and maintain a well-coordinated emergency response infrastructure.
• Stay abreast of developments. Universities will disseminate updates and extend support. Additionally, individuals can monitor official Taiwanese emergency broadcasts for the latest information.
• Assistance is readily available. Many universities feature helplines or dedicated support personnel specifically catering to the needs of international students during crises. Students are encouraged to avail themselves of these resources without hesitation.

By staying composed and informed, international students in Taiwan can navigate through this challenging period with resilience and support from their university communities.