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Article: Earthquake hazards in Taiwan--the September 1999 Chichi earthquake.
- Article from:
- Focus on Geography
- Article date:
- December 22, 2004
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2004 American Geographical Society. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Taiwan (Formosa) was known to the 16th century Portuguese seafarers as ilha formosa the "beautiful island." It was famous for an abundance of sub-tropical and tropical vegetation, but little known for its dangerous earthquakes. Scientific observations of earthquakes began under Japanese rule and were systematically continued in the 20th century. Geologic and seismic studies, guided by the Central Geologic Service (CGS), boomed after the September 21, 1999 earthquake (referred to as 921EQ).
Attempts to understand potential earthquake hazards in Taiwan have the goals of mitigating hazard risks and preventing potential disasters. Research programs focus on education ...