Ethiopia Experiences 5.8 Magnitude Earthquake Amid Rising Seismic Concerns

Ethiopia was struck by a 5.8 magnitude earthquake on Saturday, following a 5.5 quake and numerous smaller tremors in the past week, escalating safety concerns. The epicenter was 42 kilometers from Addis Ababa. Authorities are relocating at-risk residents and monitoring volcanic activity in the region.

On Saturday, Ethiopia experienced a significant earthquake registering a magnitude of 5.8, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey and the German Research Centre for Geosciences. The epicenter of the quake was situated approximately 42 kilometers east of the capital, Addis Ababa, occurring at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers. This event follows a recent 5.5 magnitude tremor that rattled the same region, alongside a series of over 30 smaller seismic activities detected throughout the past week.

Additionally, concerns have escalated among residents due to the heightened frequency and intensity of these seismic activities, particularly in the Awash Fentale area, located about 230 kilometers from Addis Ababa. Reports from Anadolu Ajansi indicated that volcanic activity has also been confirmed at Mount Dofan in central Ethiopia.

Regional administrator Abdu Ali stated that authorities are actively engaged in measures to mitigate potential casualties and are working to relocate vulnerable populations to safer locations. The continuous nature of these tremors, especially with the latest shocks felt in Addis Ababa overnight, has raised alarms about a possible major disaster in the region.

The seismic activity in Ethiopia is part of a larger tectonic setting characterized by frequent earthquakes. The recent uptick in magnitude and frequency of tremors in the region has prompted significant concern among local authorities and geologists. Previous minor earthquakes along with the 5.5 magnitude quake add to the worry that these could foreseeably lead to a more severe seismic event. Furthermore, the region’s volcanic activity could exacerbate the situation, highlighting the necessity for immediate safety measures.

In summary, Ethiopia is currently facing heightened seismic activity, having experienced a 5.8 magnitude earthquake and numerous smaller tremors within a week. The ongoing situation has led to urgent safety measures to protect residents in vulnerable areas, particularly near Addis Ababa. With volcanic eruptions occurring nearby, authorities continue to prioritize public safety while monitoring the developing threat of more significant geological events.

Original Source: www.khaleejtimes.com