A magnitude-5.8 earthquake hit Ethiopia on January 4, 2025, near Abomsa and Amhara, with subsequent eruptions at Mount Dofan Volcano. Authorities have urged evacuations as experts warn of possible intensified seismic activity affecting water rights in the region, particularly concerning the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
On January 4, 2025, a magnitude-5.8 earthquake jolted Ethiopia, affecting areas near Abomsa and Amhara in the Afar region, close to the capital city, Addis Ababa. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, as reported by the Ethiopia Geological Institute and the United States Geological Survey (USGS). There are concerns from geological experts about the possibility of more significant tremors following this event.
In addition to the earthquake, Mount Dofan Volcano in the Afar region erupted, creating cracks in the ground, prompting Ethiopian authorities to evacuate residents and move them to temporary shelters. Abbas Sheraqi, a geologist at Cairo University, indicated that the seismic events could escalate and cautioned that the volcanic activity might produce additional lava that could threaten populated areas, particularly the Fentale volcano.
Sheraqi expressed concern regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), highlighting that while he hopes for the safety of Ethiopian residents, the potential hazards also affect neighboring countries, particularly Sudan. Egypt and Sudan have struggled to reach an agreement with Ethiopia concerning the GERD, which has led to significant tensions over water rights despite years of negotiation failures between the three nations. Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs attributed the stalled negotiations to Ethiopia’s unwillingness to adopt proposed solutions aimed at safeguarding the interests of all parties involved.
The recent geological events in Ethiopia, including the tremors and volcanic activity, have raised alarm, particularly concerning the safety of nearby residents and infrastructure, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Situated in a seismic and volcanic region, Ethiopia’s geological instability poses significant risks. Additionally, ongoing disputes related to water rights remain a contentious issue between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan, particularly regarding the management and effects of the GERD.
In summary, the magnitude-5.8 earthquake and subsequent volcanic activity in Ethiopia highlight the critical geological risks faced by the region. Geological experts continue to monitor the situation closely, noting the potential for further seismic activity, while neighboring countries remain concerned about the implications for shared water resources and regional stability, particularly regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
