A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck near Dofen volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region on March 16, 2025, at a depth of 10 km. The quake triggered severe shaking felt by 6,000 individuals and prompted a low casualty alert. This event is part of an ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis, with concerns for structural stability of local infrastructure, including a dam. Evacuations have displaced over 60,000 residents due to previous seismic activity.
On March 16, 2025, a strong and shallow earthquake, recorded at M5.5 by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), struck the Afar region of Ethiopia at 18:53 UTC (21:53 LT) with a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) confirmed the same magnitude and depth, marking it as a significant seismic event in the area.
The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 46 kilometers (28.6 miles) south of Awash, 63.8 kilometers (39.7 miles) south-southwest of Metahara, and 55.5 kilometers (34.5 miles) east of Dofen volcano. An estimated 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, while 26,000 felt very strong, 14,000 experienced strong, and 30,000 reported moderate shaking from the quake.
The USGS issued a Green alert due to the incident, indicating a low likelihood of fatalities and economic losses. Despite this, many structures in the region are vulnerable to earthquake impacts, with prevalent types including informal, adobe block constructions, although some resistance structures exist.
Following the main tremor, a moderate aftershock measuring M4.3 occurred at 21:20 UTC, located 47 kilometers (30 miles) southeast of Abomsa, also at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). This seismic activity forms part of a seismo-volcanic crisis affecting the Dofen volcano region, which began on December 22, 2024, characterized by multiple moderate to strong earthquakes and significant geological disturbances.
Evacuations were previously initiated after an M5.7 earthquake on January 4, 2025, that caused substantial ground fissures. As a result, over 60,000 residents have been displaced since the start of the crisis, with a new volcanic vent forming near Mount Dofen, raising concerns about potential eruptions.
Moreover, concerns have been raised regarding the Kesem/Sabure Dam’s structural integrity. Engineering assessments suggest the dam can withstand quakes up to M5.6, but current seismic activity poses risks of structural failure, which could result in catastrophic flooding affecting hundreds of thousands.
Mount Dofen rises to 1,151 meters (3,776 feet) above sea level and is situated within the tectonically active East African Rift System. This region is frequently subjected to earthquakes, volcanic events, and ground deformation, driven by the divergence of tectonic plates and subterranean magma activities.
In conclusion, the M5.5 earthquake near Dofen volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region highlights the ongoing seismic volatility and strain experienced in this tectonically active area. The extensive impact on the local population, resulting evacuations, and the potential hazards posed by both seismic and volcanic activities underscore the necessity for continued monitoring and preparedness. Structural vulnerabilities in the region, particularly regarding key infrastructures such as the Kesem/Sabure Dam, further compound the risks to inhabitants.
Original Source: watchers.news
