Mag 6.4 Earthquake near Pingtung, Taiwan

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In summary, a shallow 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck near Pingtung, Taiwan at 19:57:27 (UTC) on Feb 5, 2016. The nearest major cities affected are Tainan and Kaohsiung, with distances ranging from 35km to 48km. The earthquake had a depth of 23.0 km and was recorded by the USGS. It caused a 17 story building to collapse, leaving 13 stories completely destroyed and 4 still intact. Three people were confirmed dead initially, but the death toll has since risen to 18 with over 130 people still missing. Multiple buildings were toppled and survivors have shared their experiences of the disaster.
  • #1
Astronuc
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. . . . a shallow 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck before dawn Saturday, leaving still others trapped inside.
http://news.yahoo.com/6-4-magnitude-earthquake-strikes-southern-taiwan-210602384.html

Nearest major cities are Tainan and Kaohsiung.

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us20004y6h#general_region

Time: 2016-02-05 19:57:27 (UTC)

Distance from major cities:
  1. 28km (17mi) NE of Pingtung, Taiwan
  2. 35km (22mi) SE of Yujing, Taiwan
  3. 46km (29mi) NE of Kaohsiung, Taiwan
  4. 48km (30mi) ESE of Tainan, Taiwan
  5. 672km (418mi) E of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Location (Lat, Long) = 22.871 °N 120.668 °E
Depth = 23.0 km (14.3 mi); shallow

The Maanshan NPP is about 100 km (62 miles) SSE of Pingtung. It doesn't seem to be affected, but I haven't seen any news from Taipower. Hopefully, there will be a statement for AEC or Taipower in the next 12 to 24 hours.
 
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  • #3
Greg Bernhardt said:
Apparently it took down a 17 story building!
Apparently, 13 stories completely collapsed, and 4 are still intact.

A mag 6.4 earthquake at 23 km from the surface is pretty significant.

I've been bounced around by a mag 6.3 which was on the other side of some mountains 60 miles away. I was very impressed by the energy at that distance.
 
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  • #5
StevieTNZ said:
Three people are confirmed dead.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/world/asia/76647052/magnitude-64-earthquake-hits-southern-taiwan
last nite's news , that had risen to 7

recorded it well on my seismo ...
.
160205.200203.zhi.gif
Dave
 
  • #6
davenn said:
last nite's news , that had risen to 7

It has subsequently risen to 17.
 
  • #7
StevieTNZ said:
It has subsequently risen to 17.

:frown::frown:
 
  • #8
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1. What caused the Mag 6.4 earthquake near Pingtung, Taiwan?

The earthquake near Pingtung, Taiwan was caused by the movement of the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate along the Longitudinal Valley Fault. This fault line runs through southern Taiwan, making it prone to earthquakes.

2. What is the significance of a Mag 6.4 earthquake?

A Mag 6.4 earthquake is considered a strong earthquake and can cause significant damage to buildings and infrastructure. It can also result in landslides and tsunamis, depending on the location and depth of the earthquake.

3. Can earthquakes be predicted?

Currently, scientists do not have the technology to accurately predict when and where an earthquake will occur. However, ongoing research and monitoring systems can provide early warning systems to help mitigate the impact of earthquakes.

4. Was there any warning before the Mag 6.4 earthquake near Pingtung, Taiwan?

No, there were no clear warning signs before the earthquake struck. However, Taiwan has a well-established earthquake monitoring system in place that can detect seismic activity and provide early warnings to residents.

5. What should people do in the event of an earthquake?

In the event of an earthquake, it is important to stay calm and remember to drop, cover, and hold on. Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy desk or table, and hold on until the shaking stops. It is also important to be prepared with emergency supplies and have an evacuation plan in place.

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