Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia, Heightening Volcano Eruption Fears

On January 4, Ethiopia experienced a 5.5 magnitude earthquake, raising concerns about safety amidst ongoing tremors and a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan. Authorities are relocating high-risk residents to safer locales as seismic activity continues to escalate in the region.

An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.5 struck Ethiopia on January 4, as reported by the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). The seismic event occurred at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers (6.21 miles). On the same day, Anadolu Ajansi reported a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, located in central Ethiopia. This area has experienced a series of minor tremors recently, heightening concerns over potential disasters in the region, notably in Awash Fentale, situated around 230 kilometers from the capital, Addis Ababa.

Residents have reported feeling more than a dozen minor earthquakes in recent weeks, prompting significant anxiety among those living in the area. Abdu Ali, regional administrator, has indicated that local authorities are actively working to mitigate risk by relocating individuals at high risk to safer locations. Furthermore, he noted that the tremors are not subsiding, with recent seismic activity being felt even in the capital city. The situation is evolving, and vigilance remains paramount as the region continues to monitor these seismic and volcanic activities.

Ethiopia is situated in a seismically active region of the East African Rift, which is characterized by geological instability due to tectonic plate movements. This activity can lead to both volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Recently, the country has been experiencing a series of minor tremors which have raised public concern regarding the stability of the region and the potential for a larger seismic event. Specifically, the proximity of the tremors to populated areas and ongoing volcanic activity in the vicinity necessitates increased monitoring and preparedness to avert disaster.

The recent 5.5 magnitude earthquake and volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan underline the geological volatility of Ethiopia, raising alarms over public safety. With more than a dozen minor earthquakes recorded recently, the government is taking initiatives to protect residents by relocating those in vulnerable areas. Continuous seismic activity throughout the region calls for heightened awareness and precautionary measures to mitigate risks associated with such natural disasters.

Original Source: theprint.in