8 Singaporeans Rescued Among 71 Foreign Nationals in Taiwan Earthquake

On 4 April 2024, authorities in Taiwan announced the rescue of 71 foreigners, including eight Singaporeans, from Hualien.

This area was severely affected by the most powerful earthquake to hit Taiwan in 25 years, registering a magnitude of 7.2. So far, the disaster claimed 10 lives and caused injuries to over 1,000 individuals.

Among the rescued were citizens from multiple countries: six from the United Kingdom, seven from the United States, and 25 from Germany. Meanwhile, a Canadian and two Australians were reported missing as of 4:30 pm local time, according to Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) is in the process of contacting Singaporeans who registered with the ministry, offering consular support.

No Singaporean has been injured in the earthquake.

In addition, the ministry advised Singaporeans in Taiwan to stay alert for aftershocks, prioritize their safety, and follow local guidelines.

Post-Rescue Operations

Rescue efforts are still ongoing.

While all individuals trapped within buildings in Hualien city have been successfully rescued, rescue operations continue for over 600 people isolated in nearby gorges.

This group includes numerous hotel staff en route to a resort in Taroko National Park at the time of the earthquake.

Following their rescue, dozens of vacationers and workers received immediate medical evaluations at a temporary medical facility set up on Thursday, as reported by Reuters.

This preliminary health screening aimed to identify any urgent medical needs and determine the necessity for hospitalization.