In the aftermath of Taiwan’s most powerful earthquake in a quarter-century, which claimed the lives of at least nine individuals and left over 900 injured, travellers are faced with a difficult decision: should they cancel their upcoming trips to Taiwan?
The earthquake, which struck on 3 April 2024, near the city of Hualien, caused widespread devastation, including collapsed buildings, power outages, landslides, and transportation disruptions. The tremors, measuring 7.2 on the Richter scale, sent shockwaves across the island, leaving behind scenes of destruction and despair.
As rescue efforts continue to unfold, with hundreds of people still trapped in tunnels and collapsed structures, concerns over safety loom large in the minds of prospective visitors. The Taiwanese Central Weather Administration’s Seismology Centre warns of ongoing aftershocks, with magnitudes of at least 6.5 expected to persist for the next several days. The possibility of further landslides and structural damage adds to the apprehension surrounding travel to the region.
One of the most harrowing incidents occurred in Taroko National Park in Hualien, where nearly 1,000 tourists and staff found themselves stranded amidst the rugged terrain. Local media reported that three hikers and one driver tragically lost their lives in rockslides triggered by the earthquake.
While authorities have not explicitly advised against travelling to Taiwan, the risks posed by the aftermath of the earthquake are undeniable. The island’s infrastructure, including transportation networks and accommodation facilities, has been severely impacted, making it challenging for travellers to navigate and find suitable lodging.
In response to the crisis, airlines like Cathay Pacific have offered flexibility to passengers, waiving rebooking, rerouting, and refund charges for flights to and from Taiwan. This initiative acknowledges the uncertainty surrounding travel plans and provides affected individuals with the option to rearrange their itineraries without financial penalty.
