Magnitude 5.5 earthquake shakes Taiwan's coasts

A moderate earthquake with a magnitude of 5.5 jolted the waters off Taiwan's southeastern coast on Tuesday. The tremor's epicenter was located at sea, approximately 10 kilometers deep, according to official meteorological and geological agencies.

The China Seismic Network Center pinpointed the earthquake's coordinates, while Taiwan's Central Weather Administration measured its intensity and depth. The quake was felt with varying intensity in Taitung County and surrounding areas, including Hualien, Chiayi, Yunlin, and Tainan. Despite the shaking, authorities confirmed that the offshore location of the earthquake meant there were no structural damages or casualties in nearby cities.

Taiwanese authorities have cautioned that they will remain vigilant for the possibility of minor aftershocks occurring over the next few weeks. The island's geological activity means that preparedness is key, and residents are advised on how to act during and before such seismic events.