Recent strong earthquakes near the Fentale volcano in Ethiopia have raised concerns of a potential volcanic eruption. Seismic activity, with magnitudes ranging from 4.3 to 5.1, indicates possible shallow magma intrusion. The last eruption occurred in 1820, and experts are now advising local communities to be alert due to increased risks. Global seismic monitoring is essential yet challenging due to the lack of local infrastructure.
A series of strong earthquakes have recently occurred near the Fentale volcano in Ethiopia’s Main Ethiopian Rift, raising significant concerns regarding a potential volcanic eruption. Between December 29 and December 30, seismic activity magnitudes were recorded ranging from 4.3 to 5.1, with the most significant quake measuring M5.1 occurring on the evening of December 29. This heightened seismic activity is likely indicative of magma intrusion beneath the volcano, increasing risks for nearby communities.
The Fentale volcano’s last recorded eruption took place in 1820, which raises alarms as volcanologist Tom Pfeiffer from VolcanoDiscovery noted, “The risk of a new volcanic eruption in this part of the African Rift is now higher than before, because the most likely cause of the quakes is a (shallow) magma intrusion.” Shallow earthquakes, primarily around 10 km deep, were widely felt across the region, including the capital, Addis Ababa. Residents have reported a series of tremors throughout the night, suggesting there may be numerous smaller quakes that have not been captured by global seismic networks.
The East African Rift, which includes the Fentale volcano, is highly tectonically active due to the divergence of the Nubian and Somalia plates. This area is characterized by frequent seismicity and volcanic eruptions, with past events like the major earthquake swarm in the Afar Triple Junction in 1989 highlighting the geological volatility. Compounding these concerns is the fact that the affected region is home to over 3.4 million people, some of whom reside in vulnerable towns such as Metahara and Awash. Although no damages or injuries have been reported to date, local authorities have issued advisories recommending preparedness for potential evacuations.
Due to the absence of a local seismic network, accurate monitoring of this activity remains challenging. Nevertheless, global seismic data and satellite imagery are proving instrumental in tracking the threats posed by the volcanic unrest in the area. Given the volcano’s history of producing basaltic lava flows and significant eruptions, the situation warrants a close watch as local geological surveys continue to assess any evolving risks associated with the Fentale volcano.
The Fentale volcano, located in the Main Ethiopian Rift, has a historical record of eruptions, with seismicity being a common occurrence in the region due to tectonic activity linked to the East African Rift System. The area experiences shallow earthquakes that may be associated with magmatic activities, hence raising the possibility of volcanic eruptions. The most recent eruption of the Fentale volcano occurred in 1820, and recent seismic activity, characterized by several shallow earthquakes, has led to increased concerns about the volcano’s potential to erupt again. Experts assess that a shallow magma intrusion beneath the Fentale may be responsible for the recent seismic events, indicating the need for heightened awareness and precaution in surrounding communities.
The recent series of earthquakes near the Fentale volcano have led to heightened concerns regarding a possible volcanic eruption, with specialized experts warning of increased risk associated with magma intrusions in the region. Comprehensive monitoring remains difficult due to the lack of local seismic networks; however, existing global data provides vital information on this geological hazard. Communities near the Fentale volcano are urged to stay vigilant, prepare for potential eruptions, and cooperate with local authorities, underscoring the need for public safety and awareness in light of these geological events.
Original Source: watchers.news
