A powerful magnitude 7.0 earthquake hit waters off northeastern Taiwan late Saturday night, rattling buildings across the island and triggering tsunami monitoring and coastal safety precautions early Sunday, December 28, 2025.

Authorities said there were no immediate reports of large-scale damage or casualties, but urged residents to remain alert as strong aftershocks are expected.

earthquake rattles Taiwan

7.0-magnitude earthquake rattles Taiwan

According to Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration, the earthquake struck at 11:05 p.m. local time with its epicenter located offshore, about 32 kilometers east of Yilan County, at a depth of roughly 70 kilometers. The quake was felt across northern, eastern, and central Taiwan, including Taipei, where residents reported prolonged shaking that lasted several seconds.

Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to assess infrastructure, transportation systems, and public facilities. Initial inspections showed no major structural damage, though local governments reported scattered minor incidents, including small gas leaks, fallen objects, and cracks in older buildings. Fire departments in several cities said calls increased briefly after the quake, largely from residents seeking safety checks rather than emergency rescues.

Power disruptions and transport checks

In Yilan County, the area closest to the epicenter, several thousand households experienced temporary power outages after the quake. Taiwan Power Company said electricity was restored within hours and that no critical facilities were affected. Train services and metro systems across the island were slowed briefly for inspections but later resumed normal operations.

Taipei city officials said high-rise buildings swayed noticeably, but modern structures designed under Taiwan’s strict seismic standards performed as expected. Schools and offices were advised to review emergency plans in case of aftershocks.

Tsunami monitoring and coastal precautions

Because the earthquake occurred offshore, regional tsunami monitoring systems were activated. International and local monitoring centers reported no confirmed tsunami threat to Taiwan or neighboring countries. However, as a precaution, authorities advised coastal communities to stay away from shorelines temporarily, particularly in northeastern and eastern Taiwan.

In parts of southern Japan and nearby islands, officials issued high-wave advisories as a safety measure. These advisories were precautionary and not tsunami warnings. No abnormal sea-level changes were reported, and advisories were lifted after monitoring confirmed stable conditions.

Tech sector responds cautiously

The earthquake briefly affected Taiwan’s high-tech manufacturing sector. Several semiconductor facilities implemented standard safety procedures, including temporary staff evacuations, while engineers checked sensitive equipment. Companies later confirmed that operations were stable and that no significant production disruptions had occurred.

Taiwan plays a central role in the global semiconductor supply chain, making seismic events closely watched by international markets. Analysts said the swift safety checks and lack of serious damage helped reassure investors early Sunday.

Aftershocks expected

Seismologists warned that aftershocks ranging from magnitude 5.5 to 6.0 could follow within the next 24 hours. Residents were advised to secure heavy furniture, avoid elevators during shaking, and prepare basic emergency supplies.

Taiwan sits along the boundary of major tectonic plates and experiences frequent earthquakes. While most cause limited damage, authorities stress that preparedness and public awareness remain critical, especially after strong offshore events that can be widely felt.

Officials said they will continue monitoring seismic activity and will issue updates if conditions change.

FAQs

What caused the Taiwan earthquake?
The quake was caused by tectonic movement near the boundary of the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate, a highly active seismic zone.

Was a tsunami confirmed after the earthquake?
No tsunami was confirmed. Monitoring systems detected no dangerous sea-level changes, though coastal precautions were briefly advised.

Where was the strongest shaking felt?
The strongest shaking was reported in northeastern Taiwan, including Yilan, but tremors were felt across much of the island, including Taipei.

Did the earthquake affect daily life?
There were brief power outages, transport checks, and evacuations for safety inspections, but no widespread disruption was reported.

Are more earthquakes expected?
Yes. Authorities warn that strong aftershocks may occur and advise residents to stay alert and follow official guidance.