Ethiopia Faces Significant Earthquake and Volcanic Eruption: Urgent Evacuations Required

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake hit Ethiopia near Addis Ababa on January 4, 2025, and was followed by the eruption of Mount Dofan in the Afar region. Authorities have urged evacuations due to ground cracks and volcanic activity. Experts warn of potential intensification of seismic events, raising alarms regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

On January 4, 2025, Ethiopia experienced a significant seismic event when a magnitude-5.8 earthquake struck the regions near Abomsa and Amhara, close to the capital city of Addis Ababa. The earthquake’s epicenter was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers, as reported by both the Ethiopian Geological Institute and the US Geological Survey (USGS). Subsequently, volcanic activity in the Afar region was noted, with Mount Dofan erupting and ground cracks appearing, prompting authorities to recommend the evacuation of nearby residents to temporary shelters due to the potential risks associated with these geological disturbances.

Seismologists anticipate that the seismic activity may escalate, as noted by Egyptian geologist Abbas Sheraqi, who indicated that these tremors might be precursors to larger geological events. There is concern regarding the volcanic activity that could lead to increased lava flows and risk neighboring volcanoes becoming active, particularly Fentale. Furthermore, Sheraqi expressed caution about the implications for the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), emphasizing the importance of water stability for both Egypt and Sudan amid their ongoing negotiations with Ethiopia about the dam’s operation.

The recent earthquake and volcanic eruption in Ethiopia highlight ongoing geological instability in the region, which is situated within the East African Rift System. This area has experienced increased seismic activity, with researchers noting a series of tremors that escalated from a magnitude of 5.0 to 5.8 within hours. The GERD has been a point of contention in regional politics, as Ethiopia continues to unilaterally fill and operate the dam, leading to tensions with downstream nations Egypt and Sudan over water rights and resource management.

In conclusion, the magnitude-5.8 earthquake that struck Ethiopia on January 4, 2025, represents a notable escalation in the area’s seismic activity, compounded by the concurrent eruption of Mount Dofan. As authorities respond to the situation by evacuating residents, concerns persist regarding the potential ramifications for the GERD and surrounding communities. The need for effective communication and cooperation among Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan remains critical as they face challenges related to water resource management in the aftermath of these geological events.

Original Source: www.egypttoday.com