Magnitude 5.8 Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia Amid Ongoing Tremors

A magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck Ethiopia near Addis Ababa, following a series of smaller tremors in the area. The local government is responding by relocating residents from at-risk zones, as recent seismic and volcanic activities raise concerns over potential disaster.

A magnitude 5.8 earthquake occurred in Ethiopia, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey and the German Research Centre for Geosciences on Saturday. This seismic event struck 42 kilometers east of the capital, Addis Ababa, at a depth of 10 kilometers, raising alarm due to a series of over 30 smaller tremors in the preceding week, including a 5.5 magnitude quake that transpired on Friday. Concern has escalated, especially in the Awash Fentale region, located approximately 230 kilometers from the capital, due to the ongoing seismic activity.

On the same day of the quake, reports emerged of a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan in central Ethiopia. The local population has expressed anxiety given the frequency and intensity of the recent earthquakes, with more than a dozen minor shakes reported in the recent weeks. Regional administrator Abdu Ali has indicated that authorities are working diligently to mitigate risks to civilian safety by relocating residents living in high-risk areas to safer locations, as per updates from the state-owned Fana Broadcasting Corporation. Ali also noted that the tremors have persisted and are becoming increasingly powerful, with the most recent ones felt in Addis Ababa.

The recent earthquake activity in Ethiopia has drawn significant attention due to its potential implications for safety and disaster preparedness. With a history of seismic events, and now exacerbated by a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, the need for vigilance within the affected regions is paramount. The Awash Fentale area, particularly, has witnessed heightened seismic activities, raising alarms about possible destructive events. Local authorities are actively considering strategies to safeguard residents from potential disasters.

In summary, the recent magnitude 5.8 earthquake in Ethiopia serves as a reminder of the seismic risks faced by the region. With ongoing tremors and recent volcanic activity, local authorities are proactive in their response, focusing on the safety of at-risk populations through relocation and monitoring efforts. The situation requires close observation as it continues to evolve, prompting community and governmental preparedness efforts.

Original Source: www.khaleejtimes.com