Ethiopia experienced a magnitude-5.8 earthquake on January 4, 2025, near Addis Ababa, accompanied by the eruption of Mount Dofan Volcano. Authorities have evacuated residents due to safety concerns, reflecting tensions related to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and ongoing negotiations between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan over water rights.
On January 4, 2025, Ethiopia experienced a significant magnitude-5.8 earthquake, affecting regions near Abomsa and Amhara and positioned close to the capital, Addis Ababa. The quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, according to reports from both the Ethiopian Geological Institute and the United States Geological Survey (USGS). This event has led geologists to express concerns that further tremors could develop, potentially resulting in greater seismic activity.
In tandem with these seismic events, the Mount Dofan Volcano in the Afar region erupted, drawing attention to large fissures appearing across the landscape. Consequently, Ethiopian authorities have initiated evacuation procedures for thousands of residents, directing them to temporary shelters to ensure their safety. Experts including Abbas Sheraqi, a geologist from Cairo University, have noted the possibility of intensified seismic activity, also anticipating lava flow that could impact the densely populated areas surrounding neighboring volcanoes.
Sheraqi voiced concerns regarding the potential risks to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), although he emphasized the safety of Ethiopian residents living in proximity to it. His statement reflects a broader apprehension about the potential repercussions on both Sudan and Egypt, as the GERD serves as a critical water reserve for these downstream countries. Ongoing dialogues between Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia have yet to yield a binding agreement to protect water rights, with highlights over the past year indicating that negotiations have faltered due to Ethiopia’s unilateral actions regarding dam operations and filling.
The recent seismic activity in Ethiopia, including the 5.8 magnitude earthquake and volcanic eruptions, is part of a growing series of geological events in the region. The Ethiopian Government and geological experts are monitoring these occurrences closely due to their potential impact on the densely populated areas nearby, as well as concerns surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). For over a decade, Egypt and Sudan have sought negotiations with Ethiopia regarding the management of the dam, citing critical water rights issues that have yet to be resolved. The combination of seismic and volcanic activity adds an urgent dimension to the ongoing discourse between these nations, prompting heightened geopolitical concerns.
In summary, Ethiopia’s magnitude-5.8 earthquake and the concurrent eruption of Mount Dofan Volcano have raised alarms regarding the safety of local residents and the potential for increased geological activity. The situation underscores the complex and sensitive dynamics surrounding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, highlighting ongoing tensions between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan over water resource management. Authorities are taking proactive measures to safeguard populations in affected areas, while experts continue to assess the evolving risks associated with this seismic activity.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
