According to the China Earthquake Networks Center, a 6.6-magnitude earthquake occurred in the sea area of Yilan County, Taiwan (24.67°N, 122.06°E) at 23:05 on December 27, with a focal depth of 60 kilometers.
A report released by the Taiwan Meteorological Agency shows that the maximum intensity of this earthquake was Level 4. Areas including Yilan, New Taipei, Hualien, Taipei, Keelung, Taoyuan, Hsinchu County and City, Taichung, Nantou, Miaoli, Yunlin, Taitung, Chiayi City, and Tainan all experienced Level 4 intensity. Pingtung recorded Level 3 intensity, while Matsu, Penghu, and Kaohsiung experienced Level 2 intensity, and Kinmen recorded Level 1 intensity.
Following the earthquake, Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) responded promptly, stating that the earthquake had not affected the operation of its hydroelectric, thermal, or nuclear power plants. However, the power distribution system was partially impacted, with the Dongao Substation in Yilan tripping due to the earthquake, causing a power outage for 3,465 households in the surrounding area. Fortunately, repair work was swiftly carried out, and power was fully restored by 23:15 on December 27.
In the semiconductor industry, two giants in global wafer foundry—TSMC and UMC—also quickly responded to the earthquake's impact.
TSMC, as the world's largest wafer foundry, holds a pivotal position in the semiconductor industry. Leveraging its advanced process technology and large-scale production capacity, it provides chip manufacturing services for many renowned global technology companies. Following the earthquake, TSMC promptly issued a statement: "A few of our Hsinchu Science Park facilities met evacuation standards. Prioritizing personnel safety, we have initiated emergency procedures, including outdoor evacuations and headcounts. All factory safety systems are operating normally." After verification, all factory safety systems are functioning normally, with no significant impact on production.
UMC, another major player in wafer foundry, also possesses profound technological expertise and extensive production experience in the semiconductor industry, offering high-quality chip manufacturing services to global clients. When the earthquake struck, UMC's facilities quickly followed guidelines for on-site shelter or evacuation, ensuring the safety of all on-duty personnel and colleagues within the factories. After preliminary assessments, UMC confirmed no injuries and will continue monitoring the situation to ensure stable production operations.
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