Ethiopia Faces Earthquake and Volcanic Activity Amid Rising Seismic Concerns
On Friday, Ethiopia experienced a 5.5 magnitude earthquake at a depth of 10 km. This quake coincides with reports of volcanic activity at Mount Dofan and an increase in minor tremors in the region, raising concerns about a major disaster and prompting authorities to relocate at-risk residents to safety.
On Friday, a 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck Ethiopia, as reported by the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre and covered by the Jerusalem Post. The quake originated at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.21 miles) and follows a series of minor tremors in the region. Earlier reports from Anadolu Ajansi indicated an eruption at Mount Dofan, situated centrally within Ethiopia, leading to heightened concerns over possible volcanic activity.
This particular area has been increasingly shaken by small earthquakes, raising alarms among residents about a potential major disaster, especially around the Awash Fentale region, which is approximately 142 miles (230 kilometers) from the capital, Addis Ababa. Over recent weeks, local media has highlighted that the area has experienced more than a dozen minor quakes, escalating anxiety among the populace, prompting officials to take preventive measures against potential casualties.
Regional Administrator Abdu Ali indicated that authorities are actively working to relocate vulnerable residents to safer regions to mitigate risks. As reported by the state-owned Fana Broadcasting Corporation, the tremors continue to grow in intensity, with some residents in Addis Ababa even feeling the impact of the most recent significant tremor overnight.
Ethiopia is located in the East African Rift, a region known for its volcanic activity and seismic events. The occurrence of frequent minor earthquakes is typical in areas surrounding the rift due to tectonic movements. The nation has several active volcanoes, such as Mount Dofan, which has been reported to have erupted recently. The combination of seismic activity and volcanic eruptions raises considerable concern for local populations, particularly in areas like Awash Fentale that are susceptible to natural disasters.
In conclusion, the recent earthquake and the reported volcanic activity in Ethiopia underscore the pressing concerns regarding geological instability in the region. With a rise in the number and intensity of tremors, authorities are urged to prioritize the safety and welfare of at-risk populations. Continuous monitoring and strategic evacuation plans are critical to preventing casualties and ensuring the community’s resilience against such natural calamities.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
