A 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck Oromiya, Ethiopia, late Friday, with over 250,000 people feeling the tremors. The quake’s epicenter was near Fentale volcano, raising concerns of eruptions amidst a series of seismic activities displacing over 80,000 residents. Local authorities are urging remaining residents to evacuate due to increased risks.
A significant earthquake of magnitude 6.0 occurred in Ethiopia’s Oromiya region late Friday night. Over 250,000 individuals experienced the tremors, with the quake confirmed by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) at a depth of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers). The epicenter was located roughly 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) north-northeast of Metahāra, near the Fentale volcano, an area that has witnessed escalating volcanic and seismic activity since late December 2023.
The earthquake has prompted emergency responses as a sequence of tremors continues to affect Ethiopia, leading to over 80,000 evacuations. Residents have expressed their fears regarding safety, as rift openings along highways create difficulties in escaping the region. Many remain anxious about the potential for volcanic eruptions following these seismic events.
Local residents quickly reported the strong shaking, recalling disturbing sounds akin to gunfire. Ado Ali, a mother from Awash Fentale, stated, “Our animals get shocked. We were praying to get out safely.” As concerns about volcanic eruptions grow, individuals living near Fentale are increasingly apprehensive about the potential dangers.
Hassan Kamil, a resident of Seganto, highlighted the alarming changes in the landscape, saying, “The rift created following the earthquake is now going from Dofan to Fentale Mountain.” Despite previous earthquakes leading to significant damage to structures near Fentale, injuries or fatalities have not yet been reported following this recent quake.
The ongoing earthquake swarm that has affected Ethiopia since December 2023 has displaced millions. The recent earthquake stands as the strongest in this series of seismic activities. Officials are pressing the urgency of evacuations due to the growing risk of volcanic eruptions at Fentale, where numerous fissures have appeared amid the seismic events.
The 6.0 magnitude earthquake in Oromiya, Ethiopia, highlights significant seismic activity in the region, escalating fears of volcanic eruptions and triggering extensive evacuations. Amidst ongoing seismic challenges, local residents remain on high alert for further developments, contributing to the humanitarian concerns within the region. Government officials continue to advocate for the safety of those who have yet to evacuate, emphasizing the necessity of timely action in response to the natural disaster.
Original Source: www.thetravel.com
