Hualien County, Taiwan – After a devastating earthquake struck Taiwan, Hualien County finds itself facing significant challenges as it tries to recover. The epicenter of the earthquake has left Hualien largely cut off from the rest of Taiwan, with roads, bridges, and tunnels severely damaged or collapsed.
Rescue workers are struggling to reach those still trapped in buildings, with fears of structures on the brink of collapse. The military has been called in to assist with the difficult task of providing aid and rescue workers to the areas most in need.
Complicating the situation is the presence of one of Taiwan’s biggest military bases in Hualien County. The Ministry of National Defense is assessing the extent of damage to military hardware and apparatus, raising concerns about potential impact on national security.
As Hualien County is a popular tourist destination, the earthquake’s timing before a long weekend has disrupted the flow of visitors, impacting the local economy that heavily relies on tourism dollars. The inability for tourists to access the area further adds to the challenges faced by the residents of Hualien County.
Despite these obstacles, all efforts are currently focused on reaching those in need of assistance in Hualien County. The urgency of the situation underscores the importance of swift and effective response in the aftermath of a natural disaster.