Major earthquake strikes Taiwan; 14 injured

TAIPEI. December 20. KAZINFORM A powerful earthquake off Taiwan injured 14 people and caused minor damage in the capital as well as near the epicenter, an official said Sunday, Kazinform refers to China Daily.
None
None

All 14 victims sustained minor injuries in the eastern city of Hualien, 85 miles (135 kilometers) southeast of the capital, the official from Taiwan's National Fire Agency said.

Thirteen became ill after inhaling chlorine gas that leaked from a hotel, and another was hurt by falling debris caused by Saturday's quake, said the official, who declined to be named because he was not authorized to speak to the press.

The US Geological Survey said Saturday the 6.4-magnitude quake was centered off the eastern coast of Taiwan, about 15 miles (25 kilometers) from Hualien. It struck at a depth of about 30 miles (45 kilometers). The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center did not immediately issue any warning.

Buildings shook in the capital for several seconds after the quake struck.

Taipei's subways and the island's high-speed rail service were suspended, local TV reports said.

Earthquakes frequently rattle Taiwan but most are minor and cause little or no damage, Kazinform cites China Daily. See www.chinadaily.com.cn for full version.

Currently reading