One Family’s Memories Shattered as Taiwan Earthquake Cracks Walls

A devastating earthquake of magnitude 7.2 struck Taiwan’s eastern city of Hualien, leaving residents like Linda Chen with no choice but to abandon their homes. This is the second time Chen’s family has been forced to move due to earthquake damage, with their previous apartment being severely affected by a 6.4-magnitude event in 2018.

As Chen sifted through the wreckage of her apartment, she came across marks on the wall that tracked her son’s growth over the years. The sight of these memories being destroyed left her feeling helpless and saddened. Her husband, Chen Chin-ming, a policeman, expressed his sense of personal failure for not being able to provide a safe living environment for his family.

Their son, Chen Le-chi, a high school student, described the condition of their old home as precarious, with cracked walls that made him fear for their safety. The recent earthquake claimed nine lives but caused minimal damage in most parts of Hualien, a popular tourist destination known for its picturesque landscapes.

Despite the tragedy, the Chens remain resilient, determined to find a new place to call home. The emotional toll of losing their cherished memories and the uncertainty of the future weigh heavily on their hearts. As they navigate this challenging time, they hope to rebuild their lives and create new memories in a safer environment.