Hualien, Taiwan—A sharp seismic tremor originating off the coast of Hualien struck the island early this morning, shaking the central mountain range and triggering massive rockfalls. Two hikers trekking along a popular coastal trail were caught in the landslide and died at the scene. Rescue teams were deployed shortly after the tremors subsided to recover the bodies from the steep, unstable terrain.

The earthquake hit with enough force to dislodge loose stone and debris from the cliff faces overlooking the hiking paths. Hikers in the area reported a sudden, violent vibration followed by a sound like thunder as the mountainside broke away. The two victims were unable to reach shelter before being struck by falling boulders.

Emergency responders navigated difficult conditions to reach the hikers, as the tremor also blocked several key access roads. Helicopters were utilized to scout the area for other potential casualties. Mountain rescue groups are currently warning all trekkers to avoid the Hualien interior until a full geological survey is completed.

Local authorities have shuttered all trails in the Hualien coastal region to prevent further accidents. The ground remains saturated and unstable following the seismic event. Officials are concerned that aftershocks could trigger additional rockfalls throughout the afternoon.

The identities of the hikers have not been publicly released while their families are notified. The Hualien County Fire Bureau confirmed that they have received multiple reports of structural damage to nearby hillside homes, but no other fatalities have been confirmed. Focus remains on ensuring the safety of those still stranded on remote trails.

Geologists from the local university are monitoring the site, noting that the Hualien coastline is particularly vulnerable to such events. The mountain range sits on a complex fault line, making the terrain prone to rapid shifts during seismic activity. The hikers were experienced enough to have filed a travel plan, which aided the rescue teams in locating them.

Rescue efforts are now transitioning into a monitoring phase as the region remains on high alert. The trails will likely remain closed for weeks while engineers reinforce the paths. The community is once again reminded of the unpredictable nature of the island’s mountainous landscape.

The immediate search for any other missing trekkers is winding down as daylight begins to fade. The mountain remains quiet, guarded by rescue teams to prevent unauthorized entry.