(FWA 2025/12/29)At 23:05 on December 27, 2025, a Richter magnitude 7.0 earthquake occurred 32.3 km east of Yilan County Government (in the eastern waters of Taiwan). The earthquake was felt across Taiwan. Specifically, New Taipei City, Hualien, Taipei, Keelung, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Taichung, Nantou, Miaoli, Changhua, Yunlin, Taitung, Chiayi, and Tainan all recorded a maximum intensity of level 4.
With the maximum intensity reaching level 4 in many areas late at night, many people were startled from their sleep. What should you do if an earthquake happens while you are sleeping? The National Fire Agency (MOI) posted a reminder on Facebook on the 28th, emphasizing that staying on the bed and lying face down to protect your head is the safest action.
How to react immediately
When the earthquake starts shaking, do not rush to get out of bed or run out of the room. Instead, stay on the bed. Turn over, lie face down, curl up your legs, and use a blanket or pillow to protect your head and neck to avoid injury from falling objects. Wait until the shaking stops before moving.
Earthquake preparation before going to bed
Disaster prevention requires preparation, not just reacting in the moment. The National Fire Agency suggests checking the following items tonight:
Bed Position: Ensure your bed is not located in front of a TV, bookshelves, or large furniture that could fall.
Flashlight: Keep a flashlight by the bedside for visibility during power outages.
Shoes: Keep slippers or shoes by the bed to avoid stepping on broken glass or debris when getting up.
Mobile Phone: Keep your phone within easy reach for emergency communication.
After the shaking stops
Once the main shaking has subsided, get out of bed carefully to check your surroundings. Look for gas leaks or fallen power lines. Open doors to ensure escape routes are clear, and stay alert for aftershocks.
