A strong M5.5 earthquake struck near Dofen volcano, Ethiopia, on March 16, 2025, causing significant tremors felt by thousands. The quake occurred at a depth of 10 km, prompting a Green alert for low casualty risk. Ongoing seismic activity and an associated seismo-volcanic crisis raises concern for local infrastructure and safety.
On March 16, 2025, a notable earthquake measuring M5.5 struck the Afar region of Ethiopia at 18:53 UTC (21:53 local time), as recorded by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). The quake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), with its epicenter located 46 kilometers south of Awash, 63.8 kilometers south-southwest of Metahara, and 55.5 kilometers east of Dofen volcano.
An estimated 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, while 26,000 felt very strong vibrations, 14,000 experienced strong shaking, and approximately 30,000 reported moderate tremors. The USGS has issued a Green alert regarding potential shaking-related fatalities and economic impacts, indicating a low probability of significant casualties or extensive damage in the region.
While certain buildings in the area have resilience to seismic activity, many structures remain vulnerable, including informal constructions made of metal, timber, and adobe blocks. The region has a history of secondary hazards resulting from recent earthquakes, such as landslides.
Shortly after the initial earthquake, a moderate aftershock registering M4.3 occurred at 21:20 UTC, 47 kilometers southeast of Abomsa at the same depth. These seismic events are part of an ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis impacting Dofen volcano since December 22, 2024, characterized by numerous moderate to strong earthquakes and large fissures.
The situation prompted mass evacuations after a preceding M5.7 earthquake on January 4, 2025, which resulted in substantial ground displacement. Thus far, over 60,000 residents have been displaced due to these events. A new volcanic vent formed near Mount Dofen prior to the recent earthquake, raising alarms about the potential for an unprecedented eruption, while volcanic mudflows have complicated evacuation processes.
Concerns extend to the structural integrity of the Kesem/Sabure Dam, situated downstream, which was designed to endure earthquakes up to M5.6. However, recent seismic activities have surpassed this threshold, thus endangering communities downstream with the potential for flooding should the dam fail.
Mount Dofen, at an elevation of 1,151 meters (3,776 feet) above sea level, is located within the Main Ethiopian Rift, part of the tectonically active East African Rift System (EARS), known for its frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to tectonic plate movements and magma intrusions beneath the Earth’s crust.
The recent M5.5 earthquake in Ethiopia’s Afar region highlights the seismo-volcanic crisis surrounding Dofen volcano and the ongoing challenges faced by the local population. Despite a relatively low likelihood of casualties from this specific quake, the vulnerabilities of regional structures present significant risks. Continuous monitoring and preparedness are paramount as the region remains seismically active, and ramifications from past and ongoing activities necessitate urgent attention to evacuation and safety measures.
Original Source: watchers.news
