Strong Earthquake Hits Southern Taiwan

A powerful 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck southern Taiwan early Tuesday, injuring 27 people and causing minor damage. The quake's epicenter was located 24 miles southeast of Chiayi County Hall at a depth of 6 miles, according to Taiwan's Central Weather Administration. The US Geological Survey recorded it at a less powerful magnitude of 6.

The earthquake led to some structural damage in Chiayi and Tainan. Notably, six individuals, including a one-month-old baby, were rescued from a collapsed house in Tainan's Nanxi district. The Zhuwei bridge on a provincial highway also sustained damage. Despite the concerning circumstances, no fatalities have been reported as rescue teams continue to assess the situation. Additionally, two people in Tainan and one person in Chiayi were rescued unharmed from elevators. A fire ignited at a Chiayi printing factory but was swiftly contained without injuries.

This event occurs on the seismic "Ring of Fire," where Taiwan frequently experiences tectonic activity. Last April, a more severe 7.4-magnitude earthquake rocked the eastern coast of Hualien, resulting in 13 fatalities and over 1,000 injuries and was followed by numerous aftershocks. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)