Ethiopia’s earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are linked to its position in the Great Rift Valley. Recent seismic activity around Awash Fentale has raised concerns of potential eruptions, as the region is known for tectonic movements. Enhanced monitoring and collaborative communication efforts are necessary to prepare for future geological events.
Ethiopia is experiencing earthquakes and volcanic activity primarily due to its location within the geologically active Great Rift Valley. In January 2025, a series of tremors prompted the evacuation of tens of thousands of people from the vicinity of Awash Fentale. This area has a documented history of seismic and volcanic occurrences over the past 800 years, notably experiencing significant eruptions in 1250 and 1820 AD.
This geological activity has been an ongoing process for millions of years, with researchers like Gemechu Bedassa Teferi emphasizing its significance as a natural laboratory. The region’s geological structure suggests that it is on the brink of a major continental division, which may eventually result in the creation of a new ocean along the East African Rift Valley.
The movements that lead to these earthquakes and potential eruptions began approximately 18 million years ago, when the continents separated to form the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. This tectonic activity caused a crack in the Afar Depression around 11 million years ago, setting the stage for the current seismic events. Beneath the surface, a hot, semi-solid mantle is constantly in motion, allowing molten rock to rise through weak points, resulting in volcanic eruptions.
As tectonic plates pull apart, they generate rifts filled with molten rock, causing sudden releases of energy that manifest as earthquakes. The Afar region is one of the world’s most tectonically active zones, and the recent seismic activity in Fentale is part of a long history of such events. Although no volcanic eruption has occurred recently, over 200 earthquakes with magnitudes exceeding 4 have been reported in the past five months, with the most powerful reaching a magnitude of 6.
The effects of these tremors have been significant, damaging infrastructure and felt as far away as Addis Ababa, which is nearly 190 km from the epicenter. The most severe earthquake in Ethiopia’s recorded history occurred in 1989 with a magnitude of 6.5, demonstrating the potential danger of such seismic activities.
Insights gathered from satellite radar images indicate that the ongoing seismic events are the result of molten rock pushing upward from a depth of about 10 km. The outcomes of this geological situation could vary based on the temperature of the molten rock, its viscosity, and the surrounding rock strength. Three potential scenarios emerge: the cooling of molten rock leading to solidification, a vertical eruption, or lateral movement resulting in interaction with other molten materials.
The inherent geological dynamics suggest that additional factors could influence these processes, necessitating improved predictive measures to mitigate hazards. Scientists advocate for enhanced monitoring techniques, including the measurement of volcanic gases, GPS monitoring, and geophysical studies, alongside collaborative efforts between scientists and government officials to ensure effective communication with communities at risk.
In summary, Ethiopia’s seismic and volcanic activity stems from its location within the tectonically active Great Rift Valley. Recent events underscore the region’s geological significance and the potential for future eruptions. Improved monitoring and communication strategies are essential to prepare and safeguard at-risk communities from upcoming geological phenomena.
Original Source: theconversation.com
