Chinese:Taiwan earthquake

Chinese: Taiwan earthquake

A powerful earthquake struck Taiwan on Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024. Here's some information :

Magnitude and Location: A strong earthquake struck Taiwan, measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale, with the epicenter located near the waters off Hualien County.

Casualties and Damage: The earthquake caused at least 9 deaths, with over 1,000 injuries. 

Buildings collapsed, and there were power and water outages across Taiwan.

Hualien County

Taiwan's largest by area, is a scenic wonderland nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Central Mountain Range.  

Despite its vastness, the mountainous terrain keeps the population density low, making it a great escape for those seeking unspoiled beauty.

Hualien City is the county seat and the largest settlement.

Hualien's beauty extends far beyond its size. Towering mountains meet crystal-clear waters, creating a diverse landscape that includes lush valleys, dramatic cliffs, and stunning beaches. 

The rich tapestry of indigenous cultures adds another layer of intrigue to this captivating region.

Here are some unforgettable experiences that await you in Hualien County:

Taroko National Park: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Taroko National Park, where nature reigns supreme. Dramatic cliffs hug the landscape, while waterfalls cascade down mossy rocks and marble caves hide ancient secrets. Hike or bike through the park, taking in the breathtaking scenery at every turn.

Outdoor Adventure: Hualien County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Hike or bike along the scenic Qixingtan Beach, a haven for surfers and beachcombers alike. 

For a truly unique experience, go whale watching off the coast of Hualien and witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. 

Kayaking on the Liyu Lake, surrounded by lush mountains, provides a serene escape.

Cultural Exploration: Delve into the rich heritage of Hualien's indigenous cultures at the Bunun Cultural Museum. Learn about their traditions, way of life, and the intricate art forms passed down through generations.

Culinary Delights: Hualien County is a haven for foodies. Savor the freshest seafood caught right off the Pacific coast. 

Indulge in bowls of steaming noodles and dumplings, a staple of Taiwanese cuisine. 

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the local night markets, where the aroma of delicious street food fills the air.

Hualien County offers something for everyone, from nature lovers and outdoor adventurers to culture enthusiasts and foodies. 

Come experience the beauty, diversity, and charm of this captivating region.

Source: You can find more information from Chinese state media like Xinhua News Agency: Chinese news source about Taiwan earthquake.

Volcanic eruption in southern Iceland

There was a recent volcanic eruption in southern Iceland on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It was actually the fourth eruption in that area since December 2023! The latest eruption occurred on March 16, 2024.

Here's a summary of the event:

This eruption is considered the strongest out of the four so far.

Lava flows threatened the nearby town of Grindavik, which had already been evacuated earlier due to previous eruptions.

A state of emergency was declared in the region.

There have been no reported disruptions to air travel so far.

There are numerous volcanoes scattered across southern Iceland, each with its own unique characteristics and history. Here are some of the most prominent ones:

Hekla: Nicknamed "The Gateway to Hell" due to its frequent and fiery eruptions, Hekla is Iceland's most active volcano. Erupting every 10-30 years, Hekla's volatility can range from spewing plumes of ash that blanket vast regions to powerful blasts that reshape the landscape.

Hengill: This extensive volcanic system stretches for 60 kilometers and boasts a history of eruptions within the Holocene era, the most recent geological epoch. While not currently active, Hengill simmers with geothermal energy, making it a source of hot springs and a fascinating spot to witness volcanic activity in a less dramatic form.

Grímsnes: Part of a larger volcanic system that incorporates the Katla caldera, Grímsnes is a lesser-known but geologically significant volcano. While its past eruptions have helped shape the southern Icelandic landscape, Grímsnes slumbers peacefully for now.

Vestmannaeyjar: This captivating archipelago south of Iceland's mainland is a cluster of volcanic islands. Formed by a series of eruptions over the past 10,000 years, Vestmannaeyjar offers a glimpse into Iceland's fiery past and a chance to explore volcanic landscapes sculpted by time and molten rock.

In addition to these southern giants, a volcano on the Reykjanes peninsula, southwest of Reykjavík, surprised everyone with its recent activity. Dormant for nearly 800 years, the Reykjanes volcanic system rumbled back to life in December 2023, erupting four times by March 2024. These eruptions, while causing evacuations in the nearby town of Grindavík, presented a unique opportunity to witness the awakening of a slumbering giant.