Rescuers in Taiwan are working tirelessly to search for a dozen people still missing and airlift others to safety in the aftermath of a 7.4-magnitude earthquake in Hualien county. The death toll has risen to 12, with two more bodies found in the mountains two days after the quake. The quake caused significant damage to roads and triggered landslides in Taroko National Park, leaving hundreds stranded. The rescue efforts have been complicated by the risk of further landslides and rockfalls, as well as intermittent rain and frequent aftershocks.
Time is of the essence for rescuers as they try to maximize their efforts within the critical first 72 hours after the earthquake. As of Friday afternoon, 1,123 people have been injured, 634 are trapped, and 13 are missing. Hualien Mayor Wei Chia-yen mentioned that the missing individuals include three foreigners from Australia and Canada. Most of those trapped are at a hotel and activity center in the national park, with helicopters providing food and water while also airlifting those who are injured and families with children.
Despite the chaos in Taroko National Park, the county seat of Hualien, home to about 100,000 people, has returned to normalcy. This showcases Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen earthquake preparedness and response following a devastating quake in 1999 that claimed about 2,400 lives. Demolition work began on a midrise building that was severely damaged in the recent quake, with a ceremony held to honor the one person who lost their life in the building. The woman had returned to her apartment after the quake to save her cat.
The rescue operations are facing challenging conditions due to the continued risk of landslides, rockfalls, and aftershocks. The efforts are focused on locating the missing individuals and ensuring the safety of those trapped in the national park. Helicopters are crucial in providing essential supplies and evacuating those who require immediate medical attention. Despite the difficulties, the resilience and preparedness of the local authorities and residents are evident as they work towards restoring normalcy in the affected areas.
Janis Mackey Frayer, Andy Yeh, and Jennifer Jett reported from Hualien, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. They provided insightful coverage of the ongoing rescue operations and the challenges faced by the authorities and rescuers. The contributions of Arata Yamamoto are also acknowledged in providing updates on the situation. The combined efforts of all involved highlight the importance of coordination and cooperation in responding to natural disasters and ensuring the safety of communities affected by such events.
The tragic loss of lives in the earthquake serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of natural disasters and the importance of being prepared for such emergencies. The dedication and bravery of the rescue teams working tirelessly to locate and save those still missing demonstrate the resilience and strength of the human spirit in times of adversity. As the rescue operations continue, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals affected by the earthquake, while also learning from the experience to further enhance disaster response and preparedness in the future.
