Powerful Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia’s Afar Region, Causing Destruction and Panic

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 5.5 struck northeastern Ethiopia’s Afar region, causing widespread destruction and panic. The tremor, originating 45 kilometers north of Awash City, was felt in several areas including Addis Ababa. Sparse infrastructure complicates emergency response, and ongoing drought conditions exacerbate the situation.

On Sunday, a significant earthquake measuring magnitude 5.5 struck the Afar region of northeastern Ethiopia, resulting in extensive destruction and widespread panic among residents. According to reports from Addis Insight, the epicenter of the tremor was situated approximately 45 kilometers north of Awash City, a location known for its geological activity.

The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, which allowed it to be felt across various regions, including the capital city of Addis Ababa. Local reports indicate that Ethiopia has been facing a series of earthquakes in recent weeks, including a magnitude 5.2 quake on February 23, and a 6.0 magnitude earlier this month near Metahara city, though the latter did not cause significant damage.

The earthquake in Ethiopia’s Afar region has highlighted vulnerabilities in emergency response due to sparse infrastructure and ongoing challenges posed by drought conditions. Although authorities are mobilizing resources, the affected areas may face delays in receiving aid. Ongoing aftershocks are a concern, urging residents to exercise caution while the extent of the devastation is assessed.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke