Ethiopia Faces Dual Crisis: 5.5 Magnitude Earthquake and Volcano Eruption
A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck northern Ethiopia on Friday, coinciding with a volcanic eruption after months of seismic activity. The quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, with reports of no injuries. Local officials indicated an active eruption in the Afar region and the continued evacuation of residents and livestock amid collapse of buildings due to frequent tremors.
On Friday, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake impacted northern Ethiopia, an occurrence that coincided with a volcanic eruption after a period of heightened seismic activity. According to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), the earthquake’s epicenter was located at a depth of 10 kilometers, approximately 55 kilometers northwest of Asbe Teferi. Initial assessments indicate that there have been no reported injuries related to this seismic event.
Local authorities reported that the volcanic eruption took place near Segento in the Afar region at 5:30 a.m. local time. Although the volcanic crater has stopped emitting smoke, lava remains active, necessitating the evacuation of nearby residents and their livestock. The area has faced considerable seismic unrest, with the United States Geological Survey documenting over 67 earthquakes since late September, particularly occurring in the Fantale region within the Great Rift Valley.
Locals have experienced significant destruction, with frequent tremors leading to the collapse of more than 30 houses. Residents express growing concern about the situation, emphasizing the danger as they witness buildings succumbing to the relentless tremors. “Houses are collapsing day by day,” a local resident noted, reflecting the precarious conditions they currently endure.
The recent seismic and volcanic activities in northern Ethiopia highlight a critical geological phenomena occurring within the Great Rift Valley, a tectonically active region characterized by frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Particularly, the Afar region has experienced an increase in seismic activities in recent months, alarming local communities and prompting preparations for potential further eruptions or catastrophic events. The combination of a significant earthquake and volcanic eruption raises concerns for the safety and wellbeing of residents in this vulnerable area.
In summary, the magnitude 5.5 earthquake and volcanic eruption in northern Ethiopia mark significant geological events that have raised alarm among local populations. The associated risks, compounded by previous seismic activity, necessitate vigilance and preparedness for further developments. As communities grapple with the consequences of continuous tremors leading to destruction, the urgency for evacuations and protective measures becomes increasingly vital.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
