Quake strikes near Taiwan, possible tsunami
TOKYO - A powerful earthquake struck off southwestern Taiwan on Tuesday, triggering a potentially destructive tsunami that was headed toward the Philippines on the second anniversary of the waves that killed more than 200,000 in southern Asia, seismologists said.The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake registered magnitude 7.1, while Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau measured it at 6.7. It was followed eight minutes later by an aftershock registering 7.0, the USGS said.
Two homes in the southern city of Pingtung collapsed, trapping six people, ETTV cable news reported. The quake also triggered fires and gas leaks, the station said.
“There is a possibility of a destructive local tsunami,†the bureau said, saying waves were expected to hit Basco in the Philippines.
“However at some coasts, particularly those near the epicenter, higher tsunami may arrive,†it said. “Authorities should be aware of this possibility.â€
No deaths were immediately reported.
Source: MSNBC
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