The small island of Taiwan was hit by its biggest earthquake in 25 years, a magnitude 7.2 tremor that caused widespread destruction. At least nine people have been killed, including three hikers and an engineering worker, and more than 900 injured. Rescue teams are working to free 137 people believed to be trapped in the rubble. The aftershocks are ongoing and authorities warn they could continue for days. This tragedy has brought back memories of Taiwan's deadly 1999 earthquake that claimed over 2,400 lives.
Taiwan Struck by Devastating Earthquake: Magnitude 7.2 Tremor Causes Widespread Destruction
Background
On Tuesday, September 17, 2022, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 struck the small island of Taiwan. It was the largest earthquake to hit the island in 25 years. The epicenter was located in the rural Yilan County, about 100 kilometers south of the capital Taipei.
Impact
The earthquake caused widespread devastation across Taiwan. Buildings collapsed, bridges were damaged, and roads were blocked. Power outages affected millions of people, and communications were disrupted in many areas. At least nine people have been confirmed dead, including three hikers and an engineering worker. More than 900 people have been injured, with 137 believed to be trapped in the rubble.
Rescue teams are working tirelessly to free the trapped victims and provide assistance to those affected by the disaster. However, the ongoing aftershocks pose a significant challenge and raise concerns about the safety of rescue operations.
Memories of the 1999 Earthquake
The current earthquake has brought back memories of the devastating 1999 earthquake that struck Taiwan. That earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.6, killed over 2,400 people and caused extensive damage to the island's infrastructure.
The 1999 earthquake had a profound impact on Taiwan. It led to significant reforms in building codes and emergency response systems. The island's earthquake preparedness and mitigation measures have been greatly enhanced in the years since.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What caused the earthquake?
The earthquake was caused by the collision between the Eurasian and Philippine Sea plates. This collision is a major source of seismic activity in Taiwan.
2. Why was the earthquake so strong?
The magnitude of the earthquake is determined by the amount of energy released at the epicenter. The larger the amount of energy, the stronger the earthquake. In this case, the earthquake released a large amount of energy due to the collision between the two plates.
3. Are there any ongoing aftershocks?
Yes, there are numerous aftershocks ongoing following the main earthquake. Aftershocks are common after large earthquakes and can continue for several days or even weeks.
4. What are the risks posed by the aftershocks?
Aftershocks can cause further damage to weakened structures and can also trigger landslides or other hazards. It is important to follow the instructions of local authorities and take precautions to ensure safety.
5. What is being done to help the victims?
Rescue teams are working to free the trapped victims and provide assistance to those affected by the earthquake. The government has deployed emergency personnel and resources, and international aid is also being provided.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi commissioned three Indian-made naval vessels, including a destroyer, a frigate, and a submarine, highlighting the country's growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing. During his address, PM Modi emphasized the importance of protecting territorial waters, ensuring freedom of navigation, and securing trade routes. He also highlighted India's expanding role in the global defence sector, noting the country's increasing exports and partnerships. The commissioned vessels, equipped with advanced technology and significant indigenous content, reflect India's growing ambition in strengthening its naval capabilities.
Police and protesters clashed violently in China's Shaanxi province over the death of a 17-year-old student, Dang Changxin, who was found dead in his dormitory on January 2. The protests were triggered by allegations of a cover-up by local authorities, who reportedly closed the case within 24 hours and did not allow the student's mother to see his body. The non-for-profit group Human Rights In China claims suspicious circumstances surrounding Dang's death, including witness reports of a struggle in his dormitory and the suggestion that he was pushed from the roof.
Take a deeper dive into the world of Hindu monks and their role in managing the sacred Kumbh Mela event. Learn about the organisational structure of Akharas and their historical significance, as well as their influence over the Amrit Snan ritual. Discover how the Amrit Snan order has evolved over the centuries and the current power dynamic between the Akharas and the institutionalised process.
Laurene Powell Jobs, the wife of the late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, has been drawn towards the spiritual heritage of India and will be attending the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Prayagraj. The grand gathering, known as one of the largest spiritual gatherings in the world, kicked off today and is expected to draw millions of pilgrims from around the globe. Powell Jobs will be staying at the Niranjani Akhara’s camp under the guidance of Kailashanand Giri Maharaj and has been given the Hindu name "Kamala." This reflects her deep connection to Hindu traditions and practices.
In a show of unity and devotion, Naga Sadhus from Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani and Shri Shambhu Panchayati Atal Akhara took the 'Amrit Snan' on Tuesday during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela. This is a historic moment as the two akharas, known for their mutual rivalry, are coming together for the holy dip. The authorities are expecting a record number of devotees to participate in the ceremony, bringing together people from different walks of life. As per the schedule, the next to take the holy dip are Shri Taponidhi Panchayati Shri Niranjani Akhara and Shri Panchayati Akhara Anand. The police have ramped up security measures to ensure a smooth and peaceful procession.
Laurene Powell Jobs, the wife of late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs, has surprised the media by arriving at the Maha Kumbh Mela in India. Known for her philanthropy and business acumen, Powell Jobs will be attending the first Shahi Snan while donning the saffron attire of a sanyasin. This rare appearance at the world's largest religious gathering showcases her spiritual side and her devotion to her guru, Swami Kailashananda.
A powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake struck Tibet, claiming the lives of at least 53 people and injuring dozens more. News of the disaster broke during a live broadcast of Good Morning Britain, prompting presenter Ranvir Singh to provide an urgent update. The earthquake originated near the holy city of Shigatse and was felt in several neighboring countries. The region's susceptibility to seismic activity, due to its location on a major fault line, may have contributed to the severity of the earthquake.
In an exposé by Lila Shapiro for New York Magazine, five women share their experiences with Gaiman, which usually started as innocent interactions with fans and employees. The women allege they were sexually assaulted by the writer, who maintains his innocence, and that their stories were not widely known in the industry. Gaiman's portrayal of a writer who rapes a woman in one of his works, "The Sandman," has caused controversy and drawn parallels to the current allegations against him.
YouTuber Elvish Yadav, who was arrested earlier in connection to the supply of snake venom at a rave party, failed to appear in court for his scheduled hearing. The YouTuber, along with five others, was charged under various acts and mentioned in a First Information Report. Later, the Noida police submitted a 1,200-page chargesheet against him and seven others, including statements from 24 witnesses. In other news, Elvish recently faced backlash for his reaction to a roast video by fellow YouTubers, Gautami Kawale and Abhyudaya Mohan, in which they allegedly dragged his mother into their jokes. After severe criticism, they deleted the controversial part.
In her inspiring call, Sadhvi Bhagwati Saraswati urges people worldwide to join the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. She emphasizes that faith and devotion are all it takes to be a part of this grand spiritual gathering. The event, which began today, has already seen massive crowds and is praised for its extensive preparations by leaders like Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. With millions of participants, the Maha Kumbh is off to a successful start and is set to conclude on February 26.