Earthquake hits Taiwan, killing at least 9

Strongest earthquake in 25 years

Dozens trapped in highway tunnels

At least nine people have died after a 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the east coast of Taiwan on Wednesday, the strongest in 25 years.

Rescuers in Taiwan are scrambling to free dozens of people trapped in highway tunnels after the island was struck by its strongest earthquake in 25 years.

The earthquake struck at 2:44 a.m. local time, about 288 kilometers (179 miles) north-northeast of Hualien County Hall, according to the Taiwan Weather Bureau. It had a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).

The earthquake was felt across the island, and even in neighboring China. It caused widespread damage to buildings, roads, and bridges. Several buildings collapsed, including a hotel in Hualien County.

Rescuers are working to free more than 700 people stranded in eastern Taiwan after a 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck the islands east coast.