Ethiopia’s 6.0 Magnitude Earthquake Prompts Urgent Evacuations in Oromiya
A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck the Oromiya region of Ethiopia on Friday night, experienced by over 250,000 residents. The quake has triggered a series of evacuations due to fears of volcanic eruptions, with over 80,000 people already displaced. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, although damages from previous earthquakes have left many homes in ruins.
Ethiopia experienced a significant 6.0 magnitude earthquake on Friday night, impacting the densely populated Oromiya region. The quake, which occurred at approximately 11:28 p.m. local time, was shallow at a depth of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers), with its epicenter located around 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) northeast of Metahāra, close to the Fentale volcano, an area noted for ongoing seismic and volcanic activity since December 2024.
The recent seismic activity has prompted evacuations, with over 80,000 individuals moved from their homes due to fears of volcanic eruptions and structural damage. The latest earthquake, felt by more than 250,000 residents, has intensified concerns as major fissures were noted on roads, complicating escape routes for those in affected areas. Local residents described the quake with alarm, realizing the potential dangers looming above them.
Residents in proximity to Fentale volcano expressed significant worries regarding a potential eruption triggered by the earthquake. “Dofan Mountain is the one behind me, and Fentale is the one in front of me; the rift created following the earthquake is now going from Dofan to Fentale Mountain,” remarked Hassan Kamil, highlighting the geological changes observed in Seganto.
Fortunately, as of now, there have been no reports of injuries or fatalities. However, inhabitants around Fentale have previously endured destructive earthquakes that began in December 2024. While damages from Fridays quake are still under assessment, previous earthquakes have already left many homes in ruins.
The ongoing swarm of earthquakes has afflicted Oromiya and surrounding regions since late December, displacing millions and raising alarms of possible volcanic activity. Many residents continue to face uncertainty following the strongest earthquake recorded thus far. Government officials have urged remaining residents to evacuate amidst rising tensions regarding Fentale’s safety and to ensure their well-being.
In summary, the recent 6.0 magnitude earthquake in Ethiopia’s Oromiya region has heightened concerns over safety and volcanic threats, prompting mass evacuations. Officials are maintaining vigilance as over 80,000 individuals have already been relocated, given the ongoing seismic activity since late December 2024. Residents remain fearful of possible eruptions and significant structural damage with no reported casualties thus far. Assessments of damages are ongoing as the situation develops.
Original Source: www.thetravel.com
