Taiwan Hit by Magnitude 7 Earthquake: What Travelers Need to Know About Aftershocks and Safety

Published on December 28, 2025

Taiwan was struck by a powerful earthquake on Saturday night, registering a magnitude of 6.6 according to the US Geological Survey, while Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration reported a magnitude of 7. The tremor, which hit the northeastern coast of the island, has caused widespread shaking and led to aftershock warnings for the coming days. Although no major casualties have been reported, the quake has impacted daily life, with isolated incidents of property damage and power outages. Travelers and residents alike have been urged to remain vigilant as aftershocks are expected in the coming days.

Magnitude 7 Earthquake Shakes Taiwan

At approximately 11:05 p.m. local time on Saturday, a powerful earthquake hit Taiwan’s northeastern region, with the epicenter located about 32 kilometers from the coastal town of Yilan. The earthquake was felt across the entire island, from the bustling capital city of Taipei to the quieter areas in the east. Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration categorized the earthquake as a magnitude 7 event, making it the strongest quake the country has experienced since the 1999 disaster.

The epicenter was located at a depth of 70 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface, which helped mitigate the potential for major destruction. Despite this, buildings in Taipei, Taiwan’s capital, shook, and residents reported feeling tremors lasting several minutes. Local authorities have not reported any major structural damage, but several minor incidents, including gas and water leaks, have been noted.

Quick Tips for Tourists:

• Be aware of potential aftershocks, especially in areas near the epicenter.
• If staying in an area with ongoing seismic activity, know where the emergency exits are in your hotel or accommodation.
• Follow local news and government alerts for real-time updates on aftershocks and safety advice.

Impact on Infrastructure and Local Communities

The tremors were felt across various regions, with some of the most significant impacts occurring in Yilan County, located near the epicenter. More than 3,000 homes in the area temporarily lost power, though the Taiwan Power Company quickly restored electricity. In addition, minor damages, including broken bottles and fallen items from supermarket shelves, were reported.

In Taipei, images on local news stations showed hanging TVs swaying and spilled cleaning products in office buildings. Despite these disruptions, Taiwan’s infrastructure proved resilient, and most of the island’s critical facilities remained operational. Authorities reassured the public that the earthquake did not result in any major damage to essential services.

The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s largest contract chipmaker, reported that a small number of its facilities in Hsinchu Science Park had reached evacuation criteria due to the earthquake. However, no major disruptions to production were confirmed.

Quick Tips for Tourists:

• Keep an emergency kit with essentials such as water, snacks, and first aid supplies in case of a prolonged disruption.
• If you are near an area where you felt the tremor, check local news and government websites for updates on infrastructure status, including transportation and public utilities.

Aftershock Warnings and Ongoing Risks

Following the initial earthquake, Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration issued a warning for potential aftershocks with magnitudes ranging from 5.5 to 6.0 in the coming days. Although the initial tremor was offshore, experts noted that aftershocks were common in the region, and residents and travelers should remain alert.

Authorities also issued high wave advisories in Japan’s Hokkaido, Tohoku, Hokuriku, and Okinawa regions as a precautionary measure. However, no tsunami warnings were issued following the earthquake. The situation remains fluid, with local governments continuing to monitor seismic activity closely.

For tourists planning to visit Taiwan in the coming days, it’s essential to stay updated with the latest safety advisories and be prepared for any sudden movements or changes in conditions.

Quick Tips for Tourists:

• Always have your accommodation’s contact details and local emergency services saved in your phone.
• Stay indoors during any aftershocks and avoid standing near windows or tall objects that could pose a risk if they fall.
• Check with local tour operators or your hotel about any planned activities or sightseeing trips in the affected areas.

The Seismic Risk in Taiwan and Japan

Taiwan is located near the junction of two tectonic plates, which makes it prone to frequent seismic activity. Earthquakes with magnitudes between 6.0 and 6.9 are considered strong, and while this earthquake did not cause widespread damage, it is a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to larger tremors. The 1999 earthquake in Taiwan, which claimed more than 2,000 lives, serves as a somber reminder of the dangers of seismic events in this area.

In Japan, the threat of high waves was closely monitored, but the region has a robust earthquake early warning system that allows for quick responses to such events. Travelers visiting both Taiwan and Japan should be aware of local evacuation procedures and familiarise themselves with earthquake preparedness measures.

Quick Tips for Tourists:

• If visiting Japan or Taiwan, understand basic earthquake preparedness, including how to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” during tremors.
• Always check with your hotel about safety protocols for earthquakes and other natural disasters.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Stay Safe

The recent earthquake in Taiwan serves as a stark reminder of the importance of earthquake preparedness, especially for travelers visiting seismically active regions. While the immediate aftermath of the earthquake did not result in widespread damage or casualties, the risk of aftershocks remains high, and tourists should be prepared for ongoing disruptions.

Taiwan’s quick response to the event, along with its robust infrastructure, helped minimize the effects of the tremor on daily life. However, travelers are encouraged to stay informed, keep emergency contacts handy, and follow safety recommendations issued by local authorities. With proper preparation, tourists can safely navigate these challenges and continue enjoying their visit to Taiwan.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated