6.2-magnitude earthquake hits Taiwan

WORLD, Dec. 15 (YPA) – A 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck at a shallow depth on the eastern coast of Taiwan Thursday, according to the island’s Meteorological Institute, and the tremor was felt in the capital, Taipei.

The institute said that the epicenter of the quake was located about 30 km off the coast of Hallein County, and at a depth of only 6 km above sea level.

The quake hit just after midday (0400 GMT) about 30 kilometres (19 miles) off the coast of Hualien County at a shallow depth of six kilometres.

Taiwan is regularly hit by earthquakes as the island lies near the junction of two tectonic plates.

There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.

E.M