TAINAN (TVBS News) — The Southern Taiwan Science Park Bureau (南部科學園區管理局) on Tuesday (Jan.21) reported that major facilities in the park underwent precautionary shutdowns after an earthquake struck in the early hours that day. The bureau confirmed no casualties or damage to public infrastructure, with no fires or chemical leaks occurring.
A magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck Chiayi's Dapu Township (大埔鄉) early Tuesday, shaking the island. The quake, originating less than 10 kilometers deep, prompted several aftershocks above magnitude 5. Authorities responded swiftly to ensure safety and assess the damage. The bureau also noted that utilities and public buildings remained unaffected, though inspections are ongoing for standard factory buildings and dormitory elevators.
In the affected Tainan and Chiayi areas, including key Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC, 台積電) facilities such as the Southern Taiwan Science Park (南科) and Central Taiwan Science Park (中科), operations were disrupted. TSMC stated that they have been conducting emergency evacuations and personnel checks.
While the assessment of damage and recovery time is pending, the absence of casualties or secondary disasters provides relief. As evaluations continue, authorities remain vigilant in ensuring safety and restoring normal operations.
