Evacuations are underway in Abomsa, Ethiopia, following a 5.8 magnitude earthquake. A disaster prevention team has been deployed to 12 districts near the epicenter, housing about 80,000 residents. Despite the tremors and a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, no fatalities have been reported. Concerns about increased seismic activity have been raised among residents, especially in Addis Ababa, and social media discussions have intensified in response.
Following a significant 5.8 magnitude earthquake, evacuations are currently in progress in Abomsa, located in central Ethiopia, as reported by the nation’s Communications Office on Saturday. The earthquake has prompted the dispatch of a disaster prevention and mitigation team to twelve districts in proximity to the epicenter, which resides in a region populated by approximately 80,000 residents. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported thus far, according to official statements.
In recent weeks, Ethiopia’s central and northeastern regions have experienced a series of minor tremors, culminating in the strongest quake recorded just last night. This heightened seismic activity has been accompanied by a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, situated in an area known for frequent seismic disturbances. Residents in Awash Fentale and adjacent locales, approximately 142 miles (230 kilometers) from the capital, Addis Ababa, have reported feeling these tremors, raising alarms regarding a potential major disaster.
The earthquake struck around 4:00 am (0100 GMT), inciting widespread panic and discussion on social media platforms among the capital’s residents. Observably, the frequency of minor earthquakes has surged in the Awash Fentale area in recent weeks, further intensifying concerns regarding increased geological unrest. The distinctive rise in magnitude, now reaching nearly six, along with five tremors recorded, implies that the seismic activity is not only becoming more frequent, but also more potent.
Ethiopia regularly experiences seismic activity, particularly in its central and northeastern regions. This activity has recently escalated, alarming residents and officials alike. As the tremors continue, particularly in the Awash Fentale area, there remains a worry over potential natural disasters. The recent volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan compounds these concerns, as volcanic and seismic activities may be interlinked. Understanding this context is vital for grasping the gravity of the present situation and the urgency of evacuation measures being implemented.
In conclusion, the 5.8 magnitude earthquake that struck central Ethiopia has prompted urgent evacuations and a response from disaster management teams, although no casualties have been reported. The intensifying seismic activity, particularly around Awash Fentale, alongside a recent volcanic eruption, underscores the need for preparedness and vigilance in the face of potential natural disasters. Residents are urged to stay alert as tremors continue to be felt in the region, sparking significant concern across the populace, particularly in urban centers such as Addis Ababa.
Original Source: www.yenisafak.com
