Staff Reporter

In a divastating accident, Eastern Taiwan was rocked by a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake yesterday, resulting in over 1,000 injuries and nine deaths.

Labelled as the strongest to hit the area in 25 years, the earthquake occurred during the morning hours yesterday.

The epicenter of the earthquake was situated in the rural and sparsely populated eastern county of Hualien. The capital city of Taipei experienced minimal damage.

According to Taiwan’s fire department, the number of reported injuries has surged to 1,050, and 52 individuals have been reported as missing.

Rescue efforts are underway to locate and assist those who remain missing or trapped.