At 8:36 PM today (26th), a felt earthquake occurred in Shuangxi District, New Taipei City, triggering national-level alerts across northern Taiwan, with noticeable shaking reported. According to CWB data, the earthquake measured magnitude 5.6 with a depth of 95.7 kilometers.

Wu Chien-fu, Director of the CWB Seismology Center, explained the cause of this earthquake and warned that aftershocks of magnitude 4.5 to 5 could occur within the next week.

The Central Weather Administration reported the epicenter was located 35.8 kilometers southeast of New Taipei City Government, in Shuangxi District, New Taipei City, with a Richter magnitude of 5.6 and a depth of 95.7 kilometers. Maximum seismic intensity reached level 3 in several areas, including Yilan, New Taipei, Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Hualien, Taichung, and Miaoli.

Wu stated that the earthquake was caused by the collision of the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate in eastern Taiwan, prompting national alerts for New Taipei, Yilan, Taipei, and Taoyuan. As the Philippine Sea Plate subducts downward, it generates two clusters of earthquakes—one with shallow epicenters around 10 kilometers deep, and another deeper cluster, such as this event exceeding 90 kilometers in depth.

Wu noted that the epicenter was near the border of New Taipei and Yilan, close to densely populated areas, resulting in more direct shaking sensations. Additionally, due to the basin effect in Taipei, residents on higher floors experienced stronger shaking. Aftershocks of magnitude 4.5 to 5 are expected within the next week. Although deeper focal depths may reduce perceived shaking intensity, Taiwan lies in a seismically active zone and earthquakes remain difficult to predict. The public is urged to remain vigilant and maintain earthquake preparedness at all times.

More exclusive reports from Feng Media: · Northern Taiwan hit by felt earthquake! Strong shaking in Taipei and New Taipei at 8:36 PM, magnitude 5.6

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  • Source: PR Times
  • Category: News