Ethiopia experienced a magnitude 5.5 earthquake on Friday, raising concerns of volcanic activity and potential disasters in the region. The quake was measured at a depth of 10 km, coinciding with reported eruptions at Mount Dofan. Authorities are taking precautionary measures to relocate at-risk residents as seismic activity continues to escalate.
On Friday, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Ethiopia, according to reports from the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre as cited by the Jerusalem Post. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.21 miles). Earlier in the day, Anadolu Ajansi reported a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, located in central Ethiopia, coinciding with recent reports of increased seismic activity in the area. Frequent minor tremors have raised concerns regarding a potential major disaster in the Awash Fentale region, approximately 230 kilometers from Addis Ababa.
In the past weeks, the region has been plagued by over a dozen minor earthquakes, prompting alarm among residents about the stability of the area. Abdu Ali, the Regional Administrator, noted that local authorities are proactively addressing the situation by relocating vulnerable residents to safer locations to mitigate potential casualties. Reports indicate that the seismic activity is intensifying, with the most recent tremors being felt even in the capital city of Addis Ababa.
This situation underscores an urgent need for monitoring and public safety measures in a region already susceptible to geological hazards.
The eastern region of Africa is seismically active, with Ethiopia’s location along the East African Rift making it prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity. Recent events, including a significant earthquake and volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, alert authorities and residents to the potential for major geological disasters. The region has been experiencing a surge in minor seismic activity, highlighting the importance of disaster preparedness and community safety protocols to address potential hazards effectively.
In summary, the recent 5.5 magnitude earthquake in Ethiopia, coupled with reports of volcanic eruptions, raises significant concerns regarding geological instability in the region. Continuous monitoring and proactive measures by authorities are essential to safeguard communities against potential disasters. The situation serves as a reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by populations in seismically active areas, emphasizing the need for preparedness and effective response strategies.
Original Source: www.dynamitenews.com
