Understanding Earthquakes and Volcanoes in Ethiopia: Insights from Geology
Ethiopia’s earthquakes and volcanic activity stem from its geological placement on the East African Rift Valley. A fracture formed about 11 million years ago has resulted in molten rock movements, causing earthquakes. Recent seismic events in Fentale indicate possible future eruptions. Scientific monitoring is essential to predict and mitigate geohazards in the region.
Ethiopia’s seismic and volcanic activities are linked to its geological formation along the East African Rift Valley, an area considered a natural laboratory for the study of continental split. Eighteen million years ago, the separation of continents initiated the formation of the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, contributing to the dynamics observed in the region today. Dr. Gemechu Bedassa Teferi, a researcher on Ethiopian volcanoes, explains that a fracture beneath the Afar Depression has evolved into a significant geological process.
At the core of the activity in Ethiopia’s Afar region is the motion of molten rock from the mantle, the semi-solid layer beneath Earth’s crust. This upward movement can lead to volcanic eruptions through weaker sections of the crust. Concurrently, this molten rock creation facilitates the rifting process, resulting in earthquakes when rock failures occur, releasing energy in the form of seismic waves.
The recent seismic events in Fentale have recorded over 200 earthquakes, with a significant magnitude of up to 6 on the Richter scale, affecting infrastructure and communities, including those far away in Addis Ababa. Although there has not been a volcanic eruption recently, the last such event in Fentale happened in 1820, hinting at the potential for future eruptions following seismic activities, as historical trends suggest that earthquakes often precede volcanic eruptions.
Current scientific investigations utilizing satellite radar are providing insights into the subterranean movements affecting the region, specifically hot molten rock ascending from depths of approximately 10 kilometers. The outcomes will depend on several factors, including the temperature and viscosity of the molten material and the resistance of surrounding rock formations.
Three primary scenarios could unfold: the cooling and solidification of molten rock, an eruption due to vertical or lateral movement to the surface, or the lateral propagation of molten rock interacting with existing materials leading to potential eruptions. Given these uncertainties, enhanced predictive measures are necessary to mitigate risks associated with these geological processes. Collaborative efforts between scientists and government agencies are essential to establish effective monitoring and communication channels for communities at risk.
The geological dynamics of Ethiopia, influenced by the East African Rift Valley, contribute to its earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The ongoing research and monitoring are crucial in addressing future hazards, as these natural events remain influenced by numerous geological factors. Understanding these processes will help prepare for potential volcanic eruptions and improve community resilience against seismic activities.
Original Source: www.downtoearth.org.in
