On Friday, a 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck Ethiopia at a depth of 10 km, raising concerns due to recent volcanic activity at Mount Dofan and ongoing minor tremors. Authorities are relocating at-risk residents to prevent casualties, amid reports of stronger seismic activity being felt in Addis Ababa.
A 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck Ethiopia on Friday, as confirmed by the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (approximately 6.21 miles). Earlier reports from Anadolu Ajansi indicated a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, situated in central Ethiopia. This has raised alarms in the region, particularly given the recent occurrence of numerous minor tremors that have concerned the local population.
Notably, the Awash Fentale area, approximately 142 miles (230 kilometers) from Addis Ababa, has experienced over a dozen minor earthquakes in recent weeks, compelling residents to regard the situation with heightened vigilance. In response to these developments, Regional Administrator Abdu Ali has stated that authorities are proactively relocating vulnerable residents to safer regions to mitigate potential casualties.
The ongoing seismic activity continues to intensify, with these tremors notably felt in Addis Ababa overnight, raising the urgency of the situation. As reported by local media, efforts are underway to enhance safety measures for the populace amidst these unsettling occurrences.
Ethiopia is prone to seismic activity, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, primarily due to its geological structure. The East African Rift system traverses the country, creating conditions conducive to tectonic shifts and volcanic activity. Recent patterns of frequent minor earthquakes have elicited significant concern among residents and authorities, particularly in areas like Awash Fentale. Preparations for potential disaster management are critical in regions susceptible to such natural disasters, leading to the relocation efforts undertaken by local officials.
In summary, the 5.5 magnitude earthquake in Ethiopia has raised significant concerns regarding the potential for further seismic activity and volcanic eruptions. The ongoing tremors have prompted local authorities to take precautionary measures to protect vulnerable populations. With continuous monitoring of the situation, the response efforts aim to minimize risks and ensure the safety of residents in affected areas.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
