The 2009 Hualien earthquake occurred on December 19 at 21:02:16 (local time) with a moment magnitude of 6.4 and a maximum Mercalli intensity of VI (Strong). The oblique-slip event took place off the coast of Hualian, Taiwan.[2] Strong shaking could be felt in Hualian City (Shindo 5 according to Central Weather Bureau) and Taipei (Shindo 4 according to Central Weather Bureau).[3] The earthquake could also be felt in Hong Kong[4] and Xiamen, China,[5] and on several islands between Yonaguni and Tarama, Japan.[6]
Two cars were damaged by fallen water towers in Taipei. Ten people were hospitalized following a chlorine leak in a hotel in Hualian.[7] The outer decorative wall of a restaurant in Hualian collapsed.[8]
