On April 3, a magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck Hualien County, Taiwan. Taiwan is located in the hub area where the Eurasian Plate, the Pacific Plate and the Philippine Subplate converge. The tectonic environment is very complex and it is one of the most seismically active regions in the world. This earthquake is the first earthquake of magnitude 7 or above to occur in 17 years since the 2006 magnitude 7.2 earthquake in Pingtung, Taiwan also the highest magnitude earthquake since the 921 earthquake whose epicenter was located in Jiji Town, Nantou County, central Taiwan 25 years ago.

Over 80 percent of major earthquakes occur along the Pacific rim, in an area known as the “Ring of Fire”; this is where the Pacific plate dives beneath surrounding plates. The Ring of Fire is the most seismically and volcanically active area in the world, and Taiwan is located right along the Pacific Ring of Fire. The 1999 Chi-Chi earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.6, caused widespread destruction and 2,000 people lost their lives. Since then, Taiwan has made significant strides in earthquake preparedness and infrastructure development. However, the recent earthquake serves as a reminder of the ever-present threat. The fate of Taiwan lies in its resilience, as it continues to learn from past events and adapt to the unpredictable nature of earthquakes.

When Boston residents felt a tremor on the morning of April 5th, many confused it for a psychological lapse. But their suspicions were nullified when it was reported that an earthquake had calmly rippled through the Northeast. The earthquake which originated in the tri-state area was, according to authorities from Cornell University, “the largest earthquake in probably 140 years for this area.” The earthquake, measuring 4.8 on the Richter scale, was centered in northern New Jersey, as confirmed by the U.S. Geological Survey.

For Americans in the Northeast, earthquakes are a rarity. Areas surrounding California and Alaska are the most susceptible to earthquakes in the United States. The strongest earthquake in the history of the United States occurred in 1964 and had a magnitude of 9.2 on the Richter scale. California, especially San Francisco, had its share of earthquakes in the 1980s, the strongest one occurred in 1989 and had a magnitude of 7.1. While the earthquake on April 5th did not cause immediate damage or serious injury, the tremors were enough to startle residents of the Northeast and prompt safety checks of buildings. This incident underscores the importance of preparedness in regions not typically associated with earthquakes, such as the Northeast part of the United States.

The occurrence of these earthquakes emphasizes the unpredictable nature of seismic events and the global importance of preparedness. Taiwan’s proactive steps to enhance infrastructure and readiness mirror a broader trend in earthquake-prone regions. Lessons learned from previous disasters fuel ongoing efforts to reduce risks.

Likewise, in Boston and across Northeast America, the sudden tremors are a reminder of seismic activity beyond typical earthquake zones. This underscores the necessity for thorough disaster planning, even in regions less accustomed to earthquakes. Such preparedness ensures communities can respond effectively to unforeseen natural events.

What do you need to know when Earthquakes happen?

During an earthquake, it’s important to prioritize your safety! Here are some key steps to take:

• Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Get down to your hands and knees, take cover under a sturdy piece of furniture or against an interior wall, and hold on until the shaking stops.
• Stay Indoors: If you’re inside, stay there. Move away from windows, glass doors, and exterior walls.
• Remain Calm: Try to stay calm and reassure others.
• If Outside: Move to an open area away from buildings, trees, streetlights, and utility wires.
• While Driving: Pull over to a safe area away from buildings, bridges, and overpasses. Stay inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.
• After the Shaking: Check yourself and others for injuries. Be prepared for aftershocks and further damage.
• Stay Informed: Listen for updates and instructions from emergency broadcasts.
• Evacuation: If told to evacuate, do so calmly and follow designated routes.
• Utility Safety: Check for gas leaks, turn off the gas if you suspect a leak, and be wary of electrical hazards.
• Help Others: Assist those in need, but be cautious not to put yourself in harm’s way.