Taiwan's coastal regions face tsunami risks primarily from large submarine earthquakes in the Western Pacific. Taiwan's western coast, particularly in the northern Taiwan Strait, faces the highest tsunami risk from Philippine Plate earthquakes. The eastern coast, especially Hualien and Taitung near the subduction zone, also faces significant tsunami risk.
An 1895 earthquake off Taiwan's northwest coast triggered a tsunami affecting Keelung, Tamsui, and other northern ports. The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami reminded Taiwan that distant tsunamis can also cause harm. Coastal areas have installed tsunami warning sirens.
High-risk areas include coastal cities like Keelung, Yilan, Hualien, Taitung, Pingtung, and Kaohsiung. These areas have established tsunami evacuation plans with regular drills. The government has built breakwaters and seawalls to mitigate tsunami impacts.
Taiwan participates in the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, receiving international tsunami alerts. Coastal communities maintain emergency supplies and evacuation route signage for rapid withdrawal upon tsunami warnings.