Key Developments
On February 5, 2016, a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck southern Taiwan, most severely affecting Tainan city. As of February 16, the Government of Taiwan (GoT) had reported at least 116 deaths and more than 550 injured persons as a result of the earthquake, which damaged or destroyed nearly 500 residential and public buildings. The GoT led the earthquake response and mobilized more than 32,000 first responders, including firefighters, military and coast guard personnel, policemen, and urban search-and-rescue specialists, to conduct rescue operations and assist earthquake-affected populations.
Following the earthquake, USAID’s Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (USAID/OFDA) supported the Taiwan Red Cross to procure and distribute emergency relief supplies and provide shelter assistance to affected communities. Additionally, USAID/OFDA deployed a regional advisor to Taiwan to assist with conducting assessments, liaise with government officials and relief organizations, and coordinate the U.S. Government response.
Background
Taiwan is prone to numerous natural disasters, including earthquakes and typhoons. When disaster strikes, USAID/OFDA works with national and local government officials, civil society, and humanitarian partners to address humanitarian needs and complement government relief efforts.
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