M6.0 Earthquake Strikes Near Fentale Volcano, Ethiopia on February 14, 2025
On February 14, 2025, a M6.0 earthquake occurred near Fentale volcano in Ethiopia, prompting significant shaking felt by around 330,000 residents. While the USGS issued a Green alert indicating a low likelihood of casualties, concerns remain regarding the region’s vulnerable infrastructure. The government is relocating residents from high-risk areas amid ongoing volcanic activity and expanding fissures threatening local dams.
On February 14, 2025, at 20:28 UTC, a powerful M6.0 earthquake struck near the Fentale volcano in Ethiopia, as recorded by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake was notable for its shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), and both the USGS and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) confirmed the same magnitude and depth.
The epicenter was situated approximately 6.6 kilometers (4.1 miles) north-north-east of Metahara, within the Oromiya region, and 26 kilometers (16 miles) west of Awash in the Afar region of Ethiopia. Reports indicated that about 45,000 individuals experienced very strong shaking, with an additional 37,000 feeling strong and 147,000 registering moderate tremors.
In response to the earthquake, the USGS assigned a Green alert status regarding potential fatalities and economic losses, indicating a low probability of significant casualties or extensive damage. Nevertheless, the local population inhabits structures generally considered vulnerable to seismic activity, with prevalent building types including adobe and informal metal or timber constructions.
The recent seismic activity marks the strongest event in a series of earthquakes associated with a seismo-volcanic crisis that has been ongoing since December 22, 2024. These earthquakes are believed to stem from magma movements within the Fentale volcanic complex, part of the Main Ethiopian Rift. Approximately 80,000 people have been urged to evacuate from high-risk areas in the Oromiya and Afar regions as a precautionary measure since January 2025.
The tremors have prompted damage to numerous infrastructures, including homes, health centers, schools, and roads, with at least two reported injuries. Additionally, there are concerns about expanding fissures in the ground that threaten the stability of the Kesem/Sabure Dam. Given the volume of water contained, any structural failure could potentially cause catastrophic flooding downstream, posing significant risks to lives in the vicinity.
The government is actively relocating affected residents to safer locations to reduce risks associated with further seismic events. The efforts include mitigating the impacts of the ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis affecting the region and preserving public safety amid these geological disturbances.
In conclusion, the recent M6.0 earthquake near Fentale volcano has raised significant concerns not only due to its intensity but also because of its implications for the vulnerable infrastructure within the region. Authorities remain focused on ensuring the safety of the population through evacuations and infrastructure monitoring. Continued vigilance will be necessary as the area experiences ongoing seismic activities linked to volcanic movements.
Original Source: watchers.news
