KOROR, Palau — Palauan students and medical patients in Taiwan are safe after a powerful earthquake struck the island Wednesday, the strongest temblor to hit the region in 25 years.
Ambassador Dave Orrukem said in an interview Thursday that all Palauans in Taiwan are accounted for following the 7.4-magnitude quake. The temblor struck around 8 a.m. local time, sending tremors through the island and causing some structural damage.
“It happened around 8 am, and we were just getting ready,” Orrukem said. “Our home and the embassy are on the 5th floor, and I walked down five (5) flights of stairs. Everything was shaking, and we had to hold on to the hallway walls.”
The epicenter of the quake was located near the eastern city of Hualien, where one Palauan student resides. Orrukem said Taiwanese authorities have confirmed the student’s safety.
Similarly, all Palauan medical patients receiving treatment at various hospitals across Taiwan, including Shing Kong, Seventh Day Adventists, and Wan Fang, are reported unharmed.
The earthquake rattled Palauans in Taiwan, unaccustomed to such strong tremors. However, some accounts offered a touch of humor amidst the chaos.
“When the earthquake hit, and stuff began falling down, I picked up my betel nut bag and rushed downstairs,” said Olkeriil, a Palauan student in Taiwan. “After a while, I realized that I had left my money, phone, passport, and other important information and only brought my betel nut bag with me.”
Olkeriil, chuckling at the memory, added, “I wasn’t the only one. I spoke with the patients later about their situation and, too, reported running out with betel nut bags, leaving important stuff behind.”
Palauan President Surangel Whips Jr. extended condolences to his Taiwanese counterpart, Tsai Ing-wen, in a letter emphasizing solidarity and unity following the disaster.
“While the full extent of the devastation continues to unfold, we are particularly mindful of those who have lost loved ones or are anxiously awaiting news of the missing,” President Whipps wrote. “Please know that you are not alone during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, and we stand in solidarity with you as you navigate through this period of uncertainty and grief.”
The quake caused multiple injuries and deaths, with Taiwanese authorities reporting at least nine fatalities. Rescue efforts continue for those trapped or missing.