Nationwide Drills Simulating an M8.5 Earthquake to Enhance Emergency Response
The National Fire Agency (NFA) of Taiwan announced on Thursday that it will conduct a nationwide earthquake drill in September, simulating a magnitude 8.5 earthquake. The goal of the exercise is to enhance Taiwan’s disaster response capabilities, reinforce public awareness, and prepare citizens for potential future earthquakes.
The drills will be held on September 21, coinciding with National Disaster Prevention Day, a date that commemorates the devastating 921 Earthquake of 1999, which registered magnitude 7.7 and remains one of the deadliest natural disasters in Taiwan’s history.
NFA Director-General Hsiao Huan-chang (蕭煥章) emphasized the importance of continuous disaster prevention efforts to improve Taiwan’s earthquake resilience. Given Taiwan’s location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, earthquakes are a common occurrence, and preparation is crucial for minimizing damage and saving lives.
Key Features of the Earthquake Drill
The 2025 Taiwan National Earthquake Drill will include the following key exercises:
1. Emergency Alert System Activation
- A Public Warning Cell Broadcast will be sent to all mobile phone users in Taiwan, simulating an emergency earthquake alert.
- News tickers on television channels and radio stations will broadcast the simulated earthquake alert in real time.
2. Tsunami Evacuation Drill
- As part of the exercise, a tsunami warning will be issued for coastal regions to test evacuation response times.
- Coastal communities will participate in evacuation drills, moving to designated safe zones.
3. National Emergency Response Coordination
- Government ministries, local emergency response teams, and disaster management agencies will test their coordination in a simulated post-earthquake scenario.
- Medical teams will conduct triage drills for earthquake victims, ensuring hospitals and emergency services are prepared for mass casualty events.
4. Infrastructure Resilience Checks
- Authorities will inspect critical infrastructure, such as bridges, power plants, water supplies, and telecommunications networks, to assess potential risks.
- The government will test backup power supplies and alternative communication networks for disaster scenarios.
Lessons from the 2024 Hualien Earthquake
The announcement comes as Taiwan marks the first anniversary of the April 3, 2024, Hualien Earthquake, which struck with a magnitude of 7.2. The disaster caused significant damage, highlighting the need for better preparedness.
In response, Taiwan has strengthened building safety regulations, invested in advanced earthquake monitoring systems, and worked closely with international partners to enhance disaster resilience strategies.
U.S.-Taiwan Cooperation on Disaster Preparedness
In a separate statement, Raymond Greene, Director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) Taipei Main Office, expressed condolences to those affected by the 2024 Hualien earthquake and reiterated the U.S.-Taiwan partnership on disaster preparedness.
“The United States and Taiwan are working hand in hand to strengthen disaster preparedness across multiple sectors,” Greene stated. “This partnership is critical in responding to future natural disasters and crises.”
The U.S. and Taiwan have collaborated on various disaster preparedness initiatives, including:
- Joint disaster response training programs
- Improved earthquake early warning systems
- Humanitarian aid coordination in case of major disasters
The Importance of Earthquake Preparedness in Taiwan
Taiwan experiences thousands of earthquakes each year, with many occurring along the Ryukyu Trench and the Philippine Sea Plate. While most earthquakes are minor, major quakes like the 921 Earthquake (1999) and Hualien Earthquake (2024) demonstrate the ongoing risk posed by seismic activity.
The NFA urges residents to take the following precautions:
- Secure heavy furniture and appliances to prevent falling hazards.
- Prepare emergency kits with food, water, first-aid supplies, and flashlights.
- Identify safe spots in homes and workplaces to take cover during an earthquake.
- Participate in earthquake drills to practice emergency response procedures.
By continuing to invest in disaster preparedness, Taiwan aims to reduce casualties and damage in the event of future earthquakes.
FAQs
When will Taiwan’s earthquake drill take place?
The nationwide earthquake drill will be held on September 21, 2025, to mark National Disaster Prevention Day.
What will the drill simulate?
The drill will simulate a magnitude 8.5 earthquake, testing Taiwan’s emergency response systems, tsunami evacuation procedures, and disaster preparedness.
How will people be notified during the drill?
A Public Warning Cell Broadcast will be sent to all mobile phone users.
TV and radio stations will broadcast earthquake warnings.
What lessons were learned from the 2024 Hualien Earthquake?
The Hualien earthquake highlighted the importance of faster emergency response, stronger building regulations, and better coordination between disaster response agencies.
What should people do to prepare for an earthquake?
Secure furniture and heavy objects to prevent injuries.
Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like water, food, and first aid.
Practice earthquake drills with family and co-workers.
Know evacuation routes in case of tsunamis or severe damage.
