Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake Hits Ethiopia Amid Rising Volcanic Activity

A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Ethiopia on Friday, with concerns rising due to ongoing volcanic activity at Mount Dofan. The tremors have intensified in recent weeks, prompting authorities to relocate at-risk residents to safer areas to prevent casualties.

On Friday, Ethiopia experienced a significant seismic event when a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck the region, as reported by the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) and subsequently covered by the Jerusalem Post. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (approximately 6.21 miles). Earlier reports from Anadolu Ajansi indicated a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, located in central Ethiopia. This eruption raised alarm, particularly in the Awash Fentale area, around 142 miles (230 kilometers) from Addis Ababa, where the frequency of minor tremors has heightened concerns about potential disasters.

Local media reports indicate that in recent weeks, the region has witnessed over a dozen minor earthquakes. This uptick in seismic activity has prompted residents to express apprehension regarding their safety and the possibility of a larger catastrophe. As a response to these mounting concerns, Regional Administrator Abdu Ali stated that authorities are actively working to relocate residents from high-risk areas to safer locations. Notably, it was reported that the tremors are intensifying, with the latest seismic activity felt in Addis Ababa overnight.

Ethiopia is situated in a tectonically active region known for its volcanic systems and earthquake susceptibility. The country has witnessed various seismic activities historically due to the divergent boundaries of tectonic plates. Recent reports of minor tremors in conjunction with a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan point to increasing geological instability in the central region of Ethiopia. Such occurrences not only alarm local residents but also prompt government intervention to mitigate potential disaster risks, especially in populated areas.

In summary, Ethiopia is currently grappling with the aftermath of a magnitude 5.5 earthquake, coupled with volcanic activity in central regions. The series of minor tremors have elicited significant concern amongst residents and local authorities, who are taking preventive measures to safeguard lives by evacuating those in vulnerable areas. The situation underscores the pressing need for continued vigilance and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Original Source: www.livemint.com