Rescue operations in eastern Taiwan have shifted into high gear following a magnitude 6 earthquake that struck 11:50 p.m., Feb. 6, in the waters off Hualien County.
 
The Central Emergency Operation Center overseen by Interior Minister Yeh Jiunn-rong was activated 10 minutes after the temblor. Premier Lai Ching-te visited the CEOC at 00:50 a.m., while President Tsai Ing-wen received a briefing around 2:20 a.m. at the Office of the President in Taipei City.
 
In an early morning tweet on her official Twitter account, Tsai said the armed forces and government agencies are responding, relief measures are underway and to stay safe. She tweeted again while inspecting Hualien that 145 people remain unaccounted for and “we will not rest until all are found.”
 
Tsai also urged the public to remain alert. This is the time for the people to show their calmness, tenacity and benevolence, she said in a statement released by the Office of the President, adding that the government stands shoulder to shoulder with the public in safeguarding Taiwan.
 
According to Tsai, all agencies are working to ensure damaged public infrastructure and utilities are quickly returned to full operation so the people can resume everyday life.
 
Echoing these remarks, the premier said providing medical care and housing for those affected by the earthquake is the top priority. The Ministry of Health and Welfare will coordinate medical resources and arrangements are in place with the county government for temporary accommodation, he added.
 
The temblor follows a magnitude 5.8 quake that hit the region two days before. As of 5 p.m., National Fire Agency statistics confirm six dead, 88 missing and 256 injured. (SFC-E)