Record Surge in Strong Earthquakes Hits Taiwan in 2024, CWA Reports
Taipei, Taiwan – Taiwan has witnessed an unprecedented increase in seismic activity in 2024, with the Central Weather Administration (CWA) reporting 42 earthquakes of magnitude 5.5 or higher so far this year. This marks the highest number of significant tremors since modern seismic record-keeping began in 1995.
Surge in Strong Earthquakes: Key Factors Behind the Spike
The primary factor behind this surge in strong earthquakes is the ongoing aftershocks from the Hualien earthquake that struck on April 3, 2024. The earthquake, which measured 7.2 in magnitude, is the second-largest recorded in Taiwan since the 1999 Nantou earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.3.
According to Wu Chien-fu (吳健富), the director of the CWA’s Seismological Center, the aftershocks from the Hualien earthquake have continued to shake the region, with several aftershocks surpassing magnitude 5.5. Wu emphasized that these aftershocks are ongoing and will require continued monitoring in the coming months.
“The Hualien earthquake and its aftermath are different from the 1999 Nantou earthquake,” Wu explained. “While the 1999 quake generated smaller aftershocks over a period of two to three years, the aftershocks from the Hualien earthquake have been larger in magnitude.”
Impact of Aftershocks: Ongoing Monitoring and Preparedness
The magnitude 7.2 earthquake in Hualien has been particularly notable for its larger aftershocks, which have been stronger and more frequent than those seen after previous large earthquakes. Despite these tremors, Taiwan’s infrastructure and emergency systems have been on high alert.
CWA data suggests that, in general, Taiwan records an average of 30 earthquakes with magnitudes between 5.0 and 5.9 each year. However, 2024’s figures are already far above this threshold, and the tremors show no signs of easing up in the immediate future.
Geographical Impact: Hualien at the Center of the Activity
During the one-year period starting November 14, 2023, Hualien County has seen the highest number of national-level earthquake alerts in Taiwan. With 64 alerts issued, Hualien has been the most affected area. The counties of Yilan, Changhua, Yunlin, and Chiayi have also experienced significant seismic activity, with 23, 9, 7, and 7 alerts, respectively.
National-level earthquake alerts are triggered when estimated earthquake magnitudes reach 5.0 and have an intensity of level 4 or higher. The intensity scale measures the shaking felt by people, with level 4 indicating strong shaking.
Introduction of New Earthquake Alert Standards
In response to the increased frequency of stronger tremors, the CWA introduced new earthquake alert thresholds on September 1, 2024. Under the updated standards, national alerts will now be triggered at magnitude 6.5 or higher, with a minimum intensity of level 3.
This new system aims to provide more precise and timely warnings to residents in affected areas, helping to minimize the impact of future earthquakes.
The Ongoing Challenge of Earthquake Preparedness
Taiwan, located on the Ring of Fire, is no stranger to earthquakes. However, the recent surge in seismic activity underscores the importance of earthquake preparedness and response strategies. The CWA continues to monitor seismic trends closely, issuing regular updates and working with local authorities to ensure public safety.
In the face of increasing seismic threats, experts stress the need for vigilance and public awareness. Taiwan’s seismic building codes and disaster response systems are constantly being reviewed to adapt to the growing challenges posed by more frequent and stronger tremors.
Key Earthquake Statistics in Taiwan (2024)
| Region | Number of Alerts | Magnitude 5.5+ Earthquakes | New Alert Threshold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hualien County | 64 | 42 | Magnitude 6.5+ triggers national alerts |
| Yilan County | 23 | – | Magnitude 6.5+ triggers national alerts |
| Changhua County | 9 | – | Magnitude 6.5+ triggers national alerts |
| Yunlin County | 7 | – | Magnitude 6.5+ triggers national alerts |
| Chiayi County | 7 | – | Magnitude 6.5+ triggers national alerts |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why is Taiwan experiencing a surge in strong earthquakes in 2024?
A1: The surge is mainly due to aftershocks from the Hualien earthquake on April 3, 2024. These aftershocks, several of which exceed magnitude 5.5, are still ongoing.
Q2: What is the difference between the 1999 Nantou earthquake and the Hualien earthquake?
A2: The 1999 Nantou earthquake had smaller aftershocks that lasted for two to three years, while the Hualien earthquake has resulted in larger and more frequent aftershocks.
Q3: What is a national-level earthquake alert?
A3: A national-level earthquake alert is triggered when an earthquake of magnitude 5.0 or higher occurs, with intensity reaching level 4 or higher, indicating significant shaking in the affected area.
Q4: What are the new earthquake alert standards introduced by the CWA?
A4: As of September 1, 2024, the new standards require earthquake magnitudes of 6.5 or higher and an intensity level of 3 or higher to trigger a national-level earthquake alert.
Q5: How many strong earthquakes have occurred in Taiwan so far in 2024?
A5: Taiwan has experienced 42 earthquakes of magnitude 5.5 or higher in 2024, which is the highest annual count since record-keeping began in 1995.
Conclusion: Ongoing Vigilance in Taiwan’s Seismic Landscape
As Taiwan continues to grapple with an increase in seismic activity, the CWA is committed to monitoring and responding to this ongoing challenge. With new alert systems in place and continued vigilance, the island nation strives to mitigate the impact of these natural disasters.
For the latest updates on Taiwan’s earthquake activity, visit Cialisweb.tw.
