M6.0 Earthquake Strikes Near Fentale Volcano, Ethiopia, Impacting Thousands

On February 14, 2025, an M6.0 earthquake struck near Fentale volcano in Ethiopia at a depth of 10 km, impacting over 80,000 individuals. The USGS issued a Green alert, indicating low risk of fatalities despite structural vulnerabilities. Recent seismic activities have prompted government evacuations in the region due to potential hazards, including risks to the Kesem/Sabure Dam.

On February 14, 2025, a significant seismic event measuring M6.0 occurred near the Fentale volcano in Ethiopia, as documented by the USGS. The earthquake struck at 20:28 UTC, with a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). Reports from the EMSC corroborate the magnitude and depth of the tremor. The epicenter was identified as 6.6 kilometers (4.1 miles) NNE of Metahara and 26 kilometers (16 miles) W of Awash, affecting nearby populations greatly.

Approximately 45,000 individuals experienced intense shaking, while 37,000 felt strong tremors, and 147,000 noted moderate effects. In response to the earthquake, the USGS has designated a Green alert for potential fatalities and economic impacts, indicating a low risk of significant damage. The affected populace predominantly resides in structures susceptible to seismic activity, with many constructed from vulnerable materials.

This earthquake marks the most powerful incident in the ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis affecting the region since December 2024, believed to be tied to magma movement within the Fentale volcanic complex of the Main Ethiopian Rift. In light of recent seismic activity, an estimated 80,000 residents in the Oromiya and Afar regions have been advised to evacuate, with governmental efforts underway to relocate those in high-risk zones in a bid to mitigate potential hazards.

The recent earthquakes have inflicted damage upon numerous buildings, including homes, health facilities, and schools, resulting in at least two reported injuries. Concerns have also arisen regarding the Kesem/Sabure Dam due to the emergence of fissures in the ground, posing a risk of catastrophic flooding should structural failure occur. This dam is designed to endure quakes up to M5.6, highlighting the pressing need for vigilance.

Given the current circumstances, it is evident that the region faces substantial challenges due to the combination of seismic activity and vulnerable infrastructure. The ongoing situation demands continual monitoring and community preparedness to address future risks effectively.

In conclusion, the recent M6.0 earthquake near Fentale volcano, Ethiopia, represents a critical seismic event affecting a vulnerable population. With an established record of seismic activity linked to volcanic movements, the response efforts focus on evacuation and infrastructure protections. Monitoring the situation further remains imperative to safeguard lives and property in the impacted regions.

Original Source: watchers.news