Magnitude 4.9 Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia with Tremors Felt in Capital

On Sunday evening, Ethiopia experienced a 4.9 magnitude earthquake in Awash Fentale, approximately 165 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa. The tremor was felt widely across the capital and nearby areas, but major damage was not anticipated according to preliminary reports. The event highlights the ongoing seismic activity in the region, alongside recent challenges from landslides.

On Sunday evening, a 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck Ethiopia, specifically in the Awash Fentale area, located approximately 165 kilometers southeast of the capital, Addis Ababa. The earthquake, which occurred at around 9 P.M. local time with a recorded depth of 10 kilometers, was confirmed by the Government Communication Services through a social media announcement. Reports indicated that the tremors were felt across various locations, including the capital, Addis Ababa, Metehara to the southeast, and Kombolcha in the north near Dessie. The seismic event was also noted by “Volcano Discovery,” which highlighted that it was one of ten significant earthquakes that occurred globally within the preceding 24 hours, noting its epicenter at coordinates 9.1287°N / 40.3209°E, near Harari, Ethiopia. According to initial seismic assessments, while the earthquake likely startled many individuals, it was expected to cause minimal damage, limited to minor domestic issues such as displaced objects and broken windows. Despite some discrepancies between the Ethiopian government’s account and that of “Volcano Discovery,” the latter reported the event occurring slightly earlier at 8:10 P.M. local time and characterized the intensity of the tremors as moderate. The Ethiopian government had previously reported minor seismic activities in the days leading up to this event and assured the public that no serious conditions were anticipated. Additionally, Ethiopia has been grappling with severe, unprecedented landslides in various regions over the past few months, resulting in over 300 fatalities.

Ethiopia is located along the East African Rift, where tectonic activity is common. This geological setting contributes to both minor and major seismic events in the region. The recent earthquake, measuring 4.9 in magnitude, highlights the ongoing seismic activity in the country. Although the earthquake was felt in several towns and cities, the preliminary assessments indicated that significant structural damage was unlikely, a reassurance in a country that has faced other natural disasters, such as landslides that have claimed many lives recently.

In conclusion, the 4.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Ethiopia on Sunday evening serves as a reminder of the region’s seismic risks. Despite the initial shock felt widely, the government and geological reports suggest minimal damage occurred, allowing authorities to focus on ongoing recovery and support efforts from previous natural disasters, particularly the recent landslides that have deeply impacted the nation.

Original Source: borkena.com