Shallow M5.5 earthquake hits Hualien, Taiwan
A shallow M5.5 earthquake struck 4 km (2 miles) east-northeast of Hualien City, Taiwan at 17:14 UTC on April 4, 2026. The earthquake originated at a depth of 22.1 km (13.7 miles).
The coordinates place the epicenter near Hualien City, eastern Taiwan, at 121.6°E, 24.0°N. This area is known for its proximity to the boundary between the Eurasian and Philippine Sea plates, contributing to regular seismic activity in the region.
Critical infrastructure near Hualien includes transportation links such as highways and railways connecting the eastern coast to other parts of Taiwan, as well as local ports and the Hualien Airport.
There is no tsunami threat associated with this earthquake, based on its location and available data.
The event received 2 felt reports, and the significance index is 466 (on a scale that runs through 1 000), based on magnitude, felt reports, and estimated impact.
Eastern Taiwan is situated in a tectonically active zone where the Philippine Sea Plate converges with the Eurasian Plate, making it one of the most seismically active areas in the region.
This information was last updated at 17:34 UTC on April 4, 2026.