A 6.6-magnitude earthquake has struck just off the coast of Taiwan on Dec. 27, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
The quake’s epicenter was about 20 miles east of Yilan County, Taiwan, at about 11:05 p.m. local time. Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration rated the earthquake as a 7.0 in magnitude.
The earthquake was felt in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, according to Reuters. The Taipei city government said there were no immediate reports of major damage.
On Dec. 24, a 6.1-magnitude earthquake struck Taiwan’s southeastern coastal county of Taitung. That quake also shook buildings in Taipei. Taiwan is prone to earthquakes and is near the junction of two tectonic plates.
What do earthquake magnitudes mean?
Magnitude is a measurement of the strength of an earthquake.
The magnitude and effect of an earthquake, according to Michigan Technological University:
- Below 2.5: Generally not felt
- 2.5 to 5.4: Minor or no damage
- 5.5 to 6.0: Slight damage to buildings
- 6.1 to 6.9: Serious damage
- 7.0 to 7.9: Major earthquake. Serious damage.
- 8.0 or greater: Massive damage, can destroy communities
Contributing: Elizabeth Weise, USA TODAY; Reuters
