Over 600 people still remain trapped in the Taroko Gorge National Park, with 13 others missing following Wednesday's 7.3-magnitude earthquake which jolted the sea area near Hualien County of China's Taiwan region, according to the latest data released at 14:00 on Friday.

They are mainly trapped in a hotel within the Taroko gorge park region, a primary school campus and in a nearby activity center.

Despite that the damaged roads leading to the areas have not been restored, the rescuers have confirmed that those who remain trapped are safe at present, and they have enough food and water for about four days.

A group of people rescued from the Silks Place Taroko hotel has arrived at the rescue center.

Earlier on Friday, two bodies were discovered in the tourist attraction's Shakadang Trail area, but their identities have yet to be confirmed.

The earthquake jolted the sea area near Hualien County at 7:58 on Wednesday.

According to the statistics from the Taiwan meteorological agency, there have been more than 500 aftershocks as of Friday. The sprinkle since Thursday night brought more difficulties and even temporary suspension to the search and rescue mission.

The devastating earthquake had killed at least 10 people and injured more than 1,000 others as of Thursday.

SHOTLIST

Hualian County, Taiwan, China - April 5, 2024
1. Various of road to Taroko park region rainy weather; sign of Hualian; transport bus company;
2. Various of forest, fog.

Hualien County, Taiwan, China - April 4, 2024
3. Ambulance helicopter;
4. Various of road signs, mountains;
5. Mountain;
6. Cracked road surface.

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