Taipei, December 28, 2025 –
A strong 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck off the northeastern coast of Taiwan late Saturday night, rattling buildings across the island, including in the capital Taipei, but authorities reported no major damage or casualties in the immediate aftermath.
According to Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration (CWA), the quake hit at 11:05 p.m. local time on December 27, with its epicenter located approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) east of Yilan County Hall, at a depth of about 73 kilometers (45 miles). The U.S. Geological Survey measured the magnitude slightly lower at 6.6.
The tremor was felt widely across Taiwan, registering an intensity of 4 on the island’s seven-tier scale in multiple areas, including Taipei, New Taipei, Yilan, and several other counties and cities. This level typically indicates noticeable shaking that can cause minor issues like objects falling from shelves.
More than 3,000 homes in Yilan County experienced brief power outages, according to Taiwan Power Company, but service was quickly restored. Isolated minor incidents were reported, such as gas and water leaks and slight building damage in some areas, but no widespread destruction occurred. Officials attributed the limited impact to the quake’s significant depth and offshore location.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te stated on social media that authorities had the situation under control and urged residents to remain vigilant for potential aftershocks, which could reach magnitudes of 5.5 to 6.0 over the coming days.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s largest contract chipmaker, reported that while some facilities in the Hsinchu science park briefly met evacuation criteria, operations remained largely unaffected.
Taiwan lies at the junction of two tectonic plates, making it highly prone to earthquakes. This event follows a 6.1-magnitude quake in southeastern Taitung County just days earlier on December 24. Historically, the island has faced devastating quakes, including a 7.3-magnitude event in 1999 that killed over 2,000 people and a 7.4-magnitude tremor in April 2024 that claimed 17 lives.
Residents are advised to stay prepared for aftershocks and review earthquake safety measures. No tsunami warning was issued.
Powerful 7.0-Magnitude Quake Jolts Taiwan, Buildings Shake in Taipei – No Major Damage Reported
