A 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck southern Taiwan shortly after midnight on Tuesday, primarily affecting the mountainous region near Chiayi. According to local authorities, the epicenter was approximately 37.9 kilometers southeast of Chiayi County Hall, with the earthquake recorded at a depth of 9.4 kilometers. Reports indicate minor damage but prompted significant evacuations, particularly at facilities belonging to chipmaker TSMC, which temporarily halted operations at several sites due to safety concerns.

Initial assessments revealed at least 27 injuries in the affected areas of Chiayi and Tainan, while local fire departments reported that no major casualties have occurred so far. The shockwaves from the quake were felt as far away as the capital, Taipei. Unfortunately, roads in the surrounding areas were hindered by damage, including landslides trapping residents; however, emergency responders managed to free those affected.

Reports from the fire department noted elevated concerns for infrastructure, with some buildings experiencing partial collapses while electricity and water services faced interruptions. Municipal authorities in Chiayi suspended work and classes as a precautionary measure, while residents in nearby villages reported being without power.

Firefighters are actively assessing the damage throughout the region, as some homes were also affected by fires that broke out during the tremors. Tainan's science park, which includes TSMC and other high-tech firms, was also evacuated as a precautionary measure, with no injuries reported. TSMC confirmed that all staff at affected facilities were safe and that inspections are ongoing to evaluate potential impacts on operations.

Aftershocks have been frequent, with over 50 recorded, raising concerns about further seismic activity in the coming days. Taiwanese Premier Cho Jong-tai issued a statement expressing his concern for those affected and promised to provide support for immediate recovery efforts. Taiwan’s historical vulnerability to earthquakes, such as the devastating 1906 Meishan quake that claimed over 1,200 lives, highlights the severity and potential risk of these seismic events.

The public is urged to remain vigilant as authorities continue their evaluations and prioritize safety. The earthquake is part of Taiwan's geological context near two tectonic plates, making it prone to such disturbances, as reiterated by the Central Weather Administration.

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