A strong earthquake in Taiwan has killed at least two people and injured more than 200 others.

Officials sat the powerful 6.4‑magnitude tremor struck earlier today about 20km off the island's east coast.

Emergency responders have rescued about 150 people from hotels and residential buildings that have partially collapsed in the city of Hualien.

Among the several badly damaged buildings was a hospital.

About 40,000 homes are without water, and highways and bridges have been are closed.

Residents have been told to stay away from their damaged homes, and about 800 have taken shelter in community buildings.

The army has been called in to help with emergency rescues.

Source: BBC