Earthquake kills 9 and leaves more than 800 injured in Taiwan

Island suffered the strongest earthquake in 25 years

At least nine people died and more than 800 were injured in an earthquake in Taiwan, Southeast Asia.

The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.4 on the Richter scale and its epicenter was near Hualien County, the most affected by the phenomenon.

The latest report from the Disaster Response Center counts nine deaths and 821 injuries, while 127 people are still trapped in rubble or tunnels blocked by debris.

Dozens of buildings are at risk of collapsing, but most of the island has already returned to normal, despite more than 100 aftershocks recorded since the initial earthquake.

The earthquake caused tsunami warnings in the Philippines and Japan and is considered the strongest in the last 25 years in Taiwan.

Several countries have offered help, including China, which has repeatedly threatened to take the island by force. “We are very concerned and express sincere condolences to Taiwan compatriots affected by the disaster,” the Chinese government said.

One of Taipei’s concerns is that the region most affected by the earthquake is home to one of the island’s largest military bases.

At least six F-16 fighters were “slightly damaged”, according to local press, but should return to service “soon”.