Ethiopia: Samara University Addresses Impact of 4.9 Magnitude Earthquake in Awash Fentale District
An earthquake of magnitude 4.9 occurred on October 6, 2024, in the Awash Fentale district of Ethiopia, causing structural damage and ground fissures. The tremor was felt in Addis Abeba, leading to precautionary evacuations. Samara University is actively assessing the damage and advising residents on safety measures, amidst ongoing seismic activity in the region.
On the evening of October 6, 2024, a magnitude 4.9 earthquake struck the Awash Fentale district in Ethiopia, resulting in significant structural damage to buildings and the emergence of ground fissures. The earthquake’s tremors were felt as far away as Addis Abeba, according to reports from the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA). Samara University has disclosed the adverse impacts on local infrastructure and has been actively conducting assessments, primarily in Sabure Kebele, to ascertain the extent of the damage and educate the public on safety precautions. The seismic activity in this region has been a concern for over two weeks, and geologists from the university have advised local residents to steer clear of certain mountainous areas and proximity to the Kesem Dam due to persistent risks of further earthquakes. Additionally, international geological organizations, including the U.S. Geological Survey, have been monitoring these seismic events closely, documenting the recent tremors. The event elicited notable responses from residents of Addis Abeba, many of whom shared their reactions on social media, showcasing evacuations as a standard precaution during the seismic disturbance. The situation remains alarming for Samara University and the surrounding community, as they deal with the aftermath of the quake and ongoing seismic threats.
Ethiopia, known for its geological diversity and seismic activities, experiences earthquakes due to several tectonic plates converging in the region. The Awash Fentale district is particularly susceptible to such events, which have been increasingly recorded in recent years. The geophysical environment fosters a variety of seismic hazards, prompting local institutions like Samara University to engage in continuous monitoring and research efforts to mitigate risks associated with these natural phenomena. Public awareness and preparedness are essential in building resilience against the impacts of earthquakes, especially in densely populated areas such as Addis Abeba that are vulnerable to distant tremors.
The earthquake in Awash Fentale, with its magnitude of 4.9, has highlighted the ongoing seismic vulnerabilities in Ethiopia. Samara University’s efforts in assessing damage and providing safety guidance to the community are critical in addressing the urgent needs arising from this natural disaster. Continued monitoring by both national and international geological agencies will be vital for understanding and managing the risks of further seismic activity in affected areas. The response from local residents underscores the necessity for effective communication and preparedness measures to safeguard public safety during such unsettling events.
Original Source: allafrica.com
