A powerful earthquake struck off southwestern Taiwan on Tuesday, prompting fears of a potentially destructive tsunami on the second anniversary of the quake and deadly waves that killed thousands in south Asia. An official at Japan's Meteorological Agency said there was no longer any danger of a destructive tsunami headed for the Philippines, as had been predicted.
"The expected waves did not materialize," said Hiroshi Koide of the agency's earthquake section. "The danger has passed."
The quake, with a preliminary magnitude of between 6.7 and 7.2, was felt throughout Taiwan. It collapsed two homes in the southern city of Pingtung, trapping six people, ETTV cable news reported. The quake also triggered fires and gas leaks, the station said.
No deaths were immediately reported.
