Increased Seismic Activity near Fentale Volcano Raises Eruption Concerns in Ethiopia
Strong seismic activity near Ethiopia’s Fentale volcano has raised concerns of a potential eruption following recent earthquakes ranging from magnitudes 4.3 to 5.1. Experts indicate a heightened risk due to magma intrusion beneath the surface and urge nearby residents to remain vigilant for possible volcanic activity after the last eruption in 1820.
Recent seismic activity near the Fentale volcano in Ethiopia has triggered alarms over potential eruptions. Over the last few days, the region has experienced a series of shallow earthquakes, with magnitudes between 4.3 and 5.1. The most significant earthquake, measuring M5.1, occurred on December 29, 2024, about 46 km north of Metahara. Volcanologist Tom Pfeiffer from VolcanoDiscovery noted that while the specific number of quakes is unverified due to the absence of a local seismic network, the recent uptick in tremors indicates a higher risk of volcanic activity in the area.
The shallow earthquakes, occurring at a depth of 10 km, have been felt widely, extending to the capital, Addis Ababa. Continual activity includes a subsequent earthquake of M4.7 on December 30, indicating an ongoing risk linked to potential magma intrusion beneath the volcano. Dr. Pfeiffer stated, “The risk of a new volcanic eruption in this part of the African Rift is now higher than before, because the most likely cause of the quakes is a (shallow) magma intrusion, which in turn can easily break the surface and produce an eruption.”
Communities in proximity to the volcano are encouraged to remain vigilant, especially as reports indicate numerous minor tremors that go undetected by global networks. Local residents from towns such as Awash have experienced these tremors firsthand, heightening concerns about volcanic activity mirroring historical patterns observed at Fentale, which last erupted in 1820. The Fentale volcano, part of the tectonically dynamic Main Ethiopian Rift, has a caldera exhibiting signs of ongoing volcanic processes, including fresh lava flows.
Given the potential threat to over 3.4 million residents within a 100 km radius, specialists urge preparedness for possible evacuations. While authorities currently have not reported significant damage or injuries, they emphasize the importance of monitoring and preparedness, particularly given the lack of a dedicated seismic network in the area. The East African Rift System, within which Fentale lies, is characterized by regular seismic and volcanic activities due to tectonic plate movements that lead to earthquakes predominantly below 25 km.
The Fentale volcano lies at the northern end of the Main Ethiopian Rift, a tectonically active area influenced by the East African Rift System. This region is prone to frequent seismic and volcanic activities resulting from the divergence of the Nubia and Somalia plates, creating a landscape marked by tectonic movements and magma-related phenomena. The geological history of Fentale reveals a significant eruptive past, with the last eruption recorded in 1820, which produced basaltic lava flows. Significant previous eruptions include a rhylitic flow around 1250 CE, highlighting the area’s susceptibility to volcanic hazards.
The recent series of earthquakes near Fentale volcano in Ethiopia poses an increased risk of eruption due to suspected magma movement beneath the surface. Experts encourage heightened vigilance among local residents and preparedness for possible evacuations as seismic activity continues. The geological context of the Fentale volcano underscores its potential for volcanic eruptions, reminding communities of the inherent risks tied to living in such tectonically active regions.
Original Source: watchers.news
