CIEE Security Alert – Taiwan

Emergency crews are responding to a gas explosion at Shin Kong Mitsukoshi department store along Taiwan Boulevard in Taichung the afternoon of Feb. 13. The blast occurred at around 11:30 on the 12th floor of the building, killing at least four people and injuring 24 others; the official casualty count may rise in the coming hours. Reports indicate that the explosion occurred during the replacement of a gas tank at the mall's food court. Authorities have cordoned off the area; road closures remain in effect along Taiwan Boulevard and Huilai, Municipal North Seventh, and Huizhong roads.

CIEE has confirmed that none of the CIEE students or staff in the area have been affected by this blast; all have been confirmed safe.

As this is a developing situation, we will continue to monitor the situation closely and remain in contact with our participants to ensure their ongoing safety.