THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
Taipei, April 3: A powerful earthquake hit Taiwan’s capital, Taipei, on Wednesday. Taiwan’s earthquake monitoring agency measured the intensity of the earthquake at 7.2 on the Richter scale whereas the US Geological Survey has reported the intensity of the earthquake as 7.4.
The epicentre of the earthquake was located about 18 kilometres south of Hualien city.
There were reports of seven people getting killed and over 700 getting injured due to the catastrophe.
Many buildings damaged in Hualien
Many buildings have been damaged due to the earthquake. It is feared that many people are trapped in the buildings. Due to the earthquake, electricity has also been disrupted in many cities.
The foundations of many buildings in Hualien, Taiwan have been shaken. Many pictures and videos from Hualien are going viral on social media, in which it can be seen that many houses and buildings have collapsed. Due to the strong earthquake, the skyscraper has also tilted.
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Japan, Philippines issue tsunami alert
Japan has issued a tsunami alert in its southern island group Okinawa after a strong earthquake off the coast of Taiwan.
Japan’s meteorological agency predicts that the tsunami could cause waves up to three meters (9.8 feet) high in the ocean. Flights have been cancelled in Japan.
The Philippines has also warned of tsunamis and ordered the evacuation of coastal areas.