Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake Hits Near Dofen Volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar Region
An M5.5 earthquake occurred near Dofen volcano in Ethiopia on March 16, 2025, with a depth of 10 km. The event caused considerable shaking experienced by tens of thousands, although the USGS reported a low likelihood of fatalities. The area is facing an ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis, leading to significant evacuations and continued geological risks, including dam stability issues.
On March 16, 2025, a significant earthquake, magnitude M5.5, struck the Afar region of Ethiopia at 18:53 UTC (21:53 LT). The U.S. Geological Survey reported this earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre confirmed the same magnitude and depth.
The earthquake’s epicenter was noted to be 46 kilometers (28.6 miles) south of Awash, 63.8 kilometers (39.7 miles) south-southwest of Metahara, and 55.5 kilometers (34.5 miles) east of the Dofen volcano. It is estimated that approximately 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, while 26,000 felt very strong shaking; an additional 14,000 felt strong shaking, and 30,000 experienced moderate shaking in the vicinity.
The USGS issued a Green alert regarding potential shaking-related fatalities and economic losses, suggesting a low likelihood of casualties or damage. However, the region is home to structures that are largely vulnerable to earthquakes. The predominant construction types include informal materials such as metal and timber, as well as adobe blocks.
Recent seismic activity in the area has resulted in secondary hazards, including landslides, which could exacerbate any potential losses. Additionally, a moderate aftershock, registered as M4.3, occurred later that same day at 21:20 UTC, with an epicenter located 47 kilometers (30 miles) south-southeast of Abomsa, also at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles).
These seismic events are part of a continuous seismo-volcanic crisis impacting the Dofen volcano region since December 22, 2024. This ongoing crisis has involved a series of moderate to strong earthquakes, the formation of extensive ground fissures, and the emergence of a significant volcanic vent.
Following an M5.7 earthquake on January 4, 2025, which caused substantial ground cracking, mass evacuations were initiated. Since the beginning of the crisis, over 60,000 residents have been displaced. On January 3, 2025, a new vent was identified near Mount Dofen, with concerns regarding a potential eruption—the first recorded instance for this volcano. Reports indicate that volcanic mudflows have complicated evacuation efforts.
Moreover, concerns have arisen regarding the stability of the Kesem/Sabure Dam downstream. The dam is designed to withstand earthquakes up to M5.6, yet the seismic activity has surpassed this threshold, prompting expert warnings about the potential for catastrophic flooding should structural failure occur, thereby endangering hundreds of thousands of lives.
Mount Dofen, with an elevation of 1,151 meters (3,776 feet) above sea level, is situated within the Main Ethiopian Rift, a segment of the East African Rift System, known for its tectonic volatility. This area frequently experiences earthquakes, volcanic activity, and ground deformation due to the ongoing divergences of tectonic plates and magma intrusions beneath the surface.
In summary, the M5.5 earthquake that struck Ethiopia’s Afar region highlights the geological volatility of the area. Despite the USGS’s low casualty estimates, significant vulnerabilities persist, particularly due to the region’s housing structures. Additionally, the ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis prompts increased concern regarding structural integrity, particularly of vital infrastructure such as dams, amid fears of potential catastrophic flooding.
Original Source: watchers.news
