A moderate earthquake struck off Taiwan's east coast early today, a routine seismic event with no reported damage.

• The magnitude 4.8 quake hit at 4:58 a.m., centered in the ocean about 30 km southeast of Hualien County.
• It struck at a depth of 16.8 km, which is considered shallow to moderate.
• Shaking reached level 3 intensity in Hualien and Nantou counties, a mild tremor that's unlikely to cause damage.

Outlook: No major aftershocks or damage are expected, consistent with Taiwan's frequent minor seismic activity.