Seismic Crisis at Dofan Volcano: New Vent Indicates Possible Eruption in Ethiopia

On January 3, 2025, a new vent opened at Dofan volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region, releasing jets of steam, rocks, and mud amid ongoing seismic activity that began on December 22, 2024. The vent is related to magma intrusion, and the seismic events raise concerns about a potential eruption, marking the first event in the volcano’s recorded history.

On January 3, 2025, a significant vent opened at the Dofan volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region, releasing powerful jets of steam, rocks, and mud. This notable event occurred amidst ongoing seismic activity that began on December 22, 2024, raising alarm over a possible volcanic eruption, marking the first in recorded history for Dofan. The emerging vent is indicative of hydrothermal activity, likely prompted by magma intrusion beneath the Earth’s surface.

Capturing attention, videos taken at the site illustrate jets of steam erupting from a fissure in the ground; however, it is still uncertain whether this vent predated the seismic events or was a consequence of the heightened activity. Renowned volcanologist Tom Pfeiffer remarked on Dofan’s historical eruptions from fissures associated with the rift axis, stating that if volcanic activity were to occur, it would not be unexpected.

The region has witnessed numerous earthquakes, with the largest striking a magnitude of 5.1 on December 29, 2024. Although the precise number of seismic events remains difficult to ascertain due to a lack of monitoring in the area, Pfeiffer pointed to rising tremors affecting local communities, particularly around the towns of Metahara and Awash, which have reported tremors in the past few nights.

Dofan volcano, standing at 1,151 meters (3,776 feet) above sea level, is part of the northern Main Ethiopian Rift, characterized by extensive cinder cones and fumarolic activity. Geological evidence indicates the volcano’s potential for an eruption, potentially marking its first recorded eruption, with approximately 1,900 residents living within 5 kilometers of this geological hotspot.

The current volcanic unrest closely mirrors previous activity related to the Fentale volcano, prompting governmental advisories on preparedness and potential evacuations. Authorities are actively monitoring the situation as seismic phenomena persist in the East African Rift System, a tectonically dynamic region that has proven to be a source of continental division and volcanic activity.

The Dofan volcano is situated in Ethiopia’s Afar region and is part of the extensive East African Rift System, where tectonic activity frequently causes volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. The Dofan has historical geological significance, characterized by ongoing volcanic and seismic activity, with a geological record suggesting that it has produced lava flows and cinder cones in the Holocene epoch. Recent seismic events beginning on December 22 have raised concerns about a potential eruption, with local communities being affected by tremors. The Dofan volcano is a key point of interest for volcanologists due to its dynamic nature and past activity, making it crucial to monitor any signs of eruptions closely.

In summary, the emergence of a new vent at Dofan volcano, coupled with increased seismicity, has heightened concerns about a potential eruption, the first of its kind at this volcano. With more than a thousand residents living in proximity to this geological site, authorities are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for any eventualities that may arise from the ongoing seismic crisis. The combination of scientific observation and community preparedness will be vital in addressing any volcanic activity in the region.

Original Source: watchers.news