A 6.4 magnitude earthquake struck southern Taiwan early Tuesday, injuring at least 27 people and causing significant damage across the affected regions. The quake hit at 12:17 a.m., centered approximately 37.9 kilometers southeast of Chiayi County Hall, at a depth of 9.7 kilometers, according to the Central Weather Administration (CWA) and later confirmed by the Los Angeles Times.

The impact of the tremor was felt as far as Taipei, with fears of aftershocks leading many residents to seek safety outdoors. In Chiayi, where the quake's impact was strongest, several homes and structures were reported damaged, alongside the Zhuwei bridge on a provincial highway, which also suffered significant harm. Firefighters responded to multiple emergencies, including a fire that broke out at a printing factory in Chiayi, though no injuries were reported due to the quick response.

Among the 27 injured, a notable case involved six individuals, including a one-month-old baby rescued from a collapsed house in Tainan's Nanxi district. Emergency services reported that two individuals in Tainan and one in Chiayi were rescued from trapped elevators without sustaining injuries. Local authorities have begun assessing the damage, with significant structural impacts reported in affected areas.

In the wake of the earthquake, Taiwanese Premier Cho Jong-tai assured assistance for those affected, pledging that support would swiftly reach households in need. Classes and work have been suspended in the hardest-hit districts to facilitate recovery efforts. High-tech facilities, including those operated by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), temporarily halted operations as a precautionary measure.

Following the earthquake, more than 50 aftershocks were documented, raising concerns about further seismic activity in the region. Given Taiwan's location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, it remains susceptible to frequent earthquakes. Previous incidents, such as last year's magnitude 7.4 earthquake, serve as reminders of the potential for devastating impacts in this area. Ongoing assessments aim to ensure the safety of residents in the region while experts analyze the seismic conditions following this latest event. Local officials are urging caution and readiness to respond to further seismic events.

For ongoing coverage, visit South China Morning Post.