Strong M5.5 Earthquake Strikes Near Dofen Volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar Region

A M5.5 earthquake hit Ethiopia’s Afar region on March 16, 2025, at shallow depth. The quake’s epicenter was near Dofen volcano, affecting thousands. A Green alert was issued for potential impacts, with ongoing worries about the stability of the region and the Kesem/Sabure Dam. Evacuations are in progress due to prior seismic activity and possible volcanic eruptions.

On March 16, 2025, a significant earthquake measuring M5.5 struck the Afar region of Ethiopia at 18:53 UTC (21:53 LT). The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake as occurring at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) corroborated these findings by reporting the same magnitude and depth.

The earthquake’s epicenter was determined to be 46 kilometers (28.6 miles) south of Awash, 63.8 kilometers (39.7 miles) south-southwest of Metahara, and 55.5 kilometers (34.5 miles) east of the Dofen volcano in Ethiopia. Approximately 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, while around 26,000 felt very strong tremors, 14,000 recorded strong shaking, and an additional 30,000 perceived moderate tremors.

The USGS issued a Green alert regarding potential fatalities and economic repercussions related to the shaking, though it indicated a low likelihood of casualties or significant damage. Despite this, many structures in the region remain vulnerable to seismic activity, primarily informal housing and adobe block constructions.

This earthquake is part of an ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis affecting the Dofen volcano area, which has been observed since December 22, 2024. The crisis features numerous moderate to strong earthquakes, ground fissures, and a new volcanic vent’s emergence within the region, raising concerns about a possible eruption—the first such event recorded for this volcano.

Following a preceding M5.7 earthquake on January 4, 2025, which caused notable structural damages and large fissures, mass evacuations were initiated, displacing over 60,000 residents. Additionally, a moderate aftershock of M4.3 occurred later on March 16, 47 kilometers (30 miles) southeast of Abomsa.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the Kesem/Sabure Dam, which is downstream and holds a substantial volume of water. Experts point out that while the dam was designed to withstand earthquakes up to M5.6, the ongoing seismic activities risk breaching that resilience, potentially resulting in catastrophic flooding.

The Dofen volcano is situated at an elevation of 1,151 meters (3,776 feet) and is part of the tectonically active Main Ethiopian Rift, a segment of the East African Rift System (EARS). This region frequently experiences earthquakes, volcanic activities, and ground deformation due to ongoing tectonic plate divergence and magma movement beneath the Earth’s surface.

In summary, the M5.5 earthquake near the Dofen volcano in Ethiopia is part of a broader seismo-volcanic crisis currently affecting the region. With mass evacuations already underway, concerns regarding structural stability and potential volcanic activity persist. The risks associated with this earthquake, particularly in vulnerable areas, underscore the need for continued monitoring and preparedness for further seismic events.

Original Source: watchers.news