Ethiopia is evacuating around 80,000 people due to a series of earthquakes, with a significant event measuring 5.8 magnitude recorded in the Oromia region. Concerns about volcanic activity have arisen, particularly from the Dofen volcano. No casualties have been confirmed, but the quakes have caused structural damage, sparking widespread fear among residents. The government is monitoring risks while emphasizing the need for better construction practices to ensure public safety going forward.
The Ethiopian government has announced the evacuation of approximately 80,000 citizens in response to a series of earthquakes affecting regions including Afar, Oromia, and Amhara. Recorded events began on Friday, and recent seismic activity has raised concerns about potential volcanic eruptions, particularly in the Awash Fentale district. The United States Geological Survey noted a significant 5.8 magnitude quake, with tremors felt as far away as the capital city, Addis Ababa. Damage has occurred, but there have been no reported casualties.
Emergency services are actively assessing the situation, specifically monitoring the Dofen volcano’s activity after smoke was observed after the latest tremor. The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission highlighted that over 51,000 residents remain at risk, and preventive measures, including temporary relocations, are underway to ensure public safety. The government is coordinating relief efforts across several districts, aiming to protect vulnerable populations while assessing infrastructure damage.
Experts emphasize that Ethiopia’s buildings, particularly in Addis Ababa, are not equipped to withstand such seismic activities, warning of significant safety deficiencies in construction practices. Recent earthquakes signal heightened volcanic activity, challenging local infrastructure and requiring a proactive government response. To address these risks, plans for upgrading building codes and enhancing construction standards are being pursued.
Ethiopia is currently witnessing increased seismic activity, particularly in the regions of Afar, Oromia, and Amhara. The recent earthquake events have been characterized by their frequency and magnitude, prompting government officials to respond swiftly with evacuations to protect citizens. Experts in seismic science are emphasizing that Ethiopia’s construction standards may not adequately address susceptibility to earthquakes, underscoring the need for improvements in safety measures in urban areas. The situation is further complicated by the potential for volcanic eruptions, which raises the stakes for affected communities.
In conclusion, the Ethiopian government’s evacuation of 80,000 residents comes as a preventive measure against the backdrop of escalating earthquakes and possible volcanic activity. With experts cautioning about vulnerabilities in construction, there is an urgent need for enhanced safety standards to safeguard the population. The collaborative efforts between government agencies and local communities are crucial as the country navigates this challenging seismic landscape.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
