Magnitude 5 Earthquake Hits Central Ethiopia, Felt in Addis Ababa

A magnitude 5 earthquake struck central Ethiopia, with substantial tremors felt in Addis Ababa. The epicenter was located 23 km northeast of Awash at a depth of 10 km. Fortunately, no immediate reports of damage or casualties have been noted, although assessments are ongoing. Temporary infrastructure shutdowns may occur for safety checks, with aftershocks expected in the coming days.

A magnitude 5 earthquake struck central Ethiopia, with its effects prominently felt in Addis Ababa, the nation’s capital. Residents of high-rise buildings and apartments evacuated their homes for several hours following the tremor. The epicenter of the earthquake was identified to be approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles) northeast of Awash, occurring at a depth of around 10 kilometers (6 miles). Reports indicate that the shaking was likely experienced throughout central Ethiopia. Initial assessments have not reported any casualties or significant damage, and the likelihood of major destruction appears minimal. However, comprehensive evaluations of any potential damages will require several hours to complete, especially in more remote areas. Authorities caution that aftershocks may occur in the forthcoming days. To ensure public safety, officials may implement temporary shutdowns of transportation infrastructure within the affected zones to assess for any structural deficits. Although minor disruptions may arise during these procedures, services are expected to resume promptly if no damage is detected. It is also noted that utility interruptions may happen close to the earthquake’s epicenter, though the extent remains uncertain.

Earthquakes are common geological events caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. Ethiopia, situated in the East African Rift, experiences moderate seismic activity relative to global standards. While large-scale earthquakes are relatively rare in this region, even lower magnitude tremors can create concern due to the country’s urban density and the structural integrity of buildings, especially in major cities like Addis Ababa. This recent earthquake serves as a reminder of the continuing need for preparedness in seismic zones.

In summary, the magnitude 5 earthquake that impacted central Ethiopia was felt notably in Addis Ababa, prompting residents to evacuate for safety. Fortunately, preliminary reports indicate no immediate damage or casualties. As authorities prepare to evaluate the situation further, it is essential to remain vigilant for possible aftershocks and any necessary infrastructure assessments in the days to come. Public safety measures will be a priority during this evaluation period, ensuring that any potential risks are addressed swiftly.

Original Source: apanews.net