4.9 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia, Causing Minimal Damage in the Capital
A 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck Ethiopia on Sunday, with tremors felt in the capital, Addis Ababa, and surrounding areas. The quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers in the Awash Fentale region, with reports of minor damages but no significant destruction anticipated. This seismic event follows recent landslides that have impacted the region.
A 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck Ethiopia on Sunday, reportedly affecting the Awash Fentale region approximately 165 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa. The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers around 9 PM local time, was confirmed by the Government Communication Services via a social media announcement. The seismic tremors were felt in Addis Ababa, as well as in Metehara to the southeast and Kombolcha in the north. According to Volcano Discovery, a global geological reporting platform, this earthquake was one of ten significant tremors documented worldwide within a 24-hour period, including incidents in both Canada and the United States. The epicenter of the quake was identified at coordinates 9.1287°N latitude and 40.3209°E longitude in the Harari region of Ethiopia. Preliminary seismic data indicated that many in proximity to the epicenter likely felt the earthquake; however, it was deemed that there would be minimal damage, consisting mainly of minor disturbances such as falling objects and broken windows. Notably, Volcano Discovery reported a slightly different epicenter location in Harari, pinpointing it as 41 kilometers northwest of Gelemso in Oromiya, and stated that the tremor took place at around 8:10 PM. Additionally, reports indicated that minor seismic activity had occurred in the preceding days without significant repercussions, with officials expecting no detrimental consequences stemming from this quake. This earthquake follows a series of unprecedented landslides in Ethiopia that have tragically claimed over 300 lives in recent months.
Ethiopia is situated in the East African Rift Valley, a tectonically active region where earthquakes and volcanic activity are common. Given its geological setting, the country periodically experiences seismic events, which can vary in magnitude. Previous occurrences have caused varying levels of damage, but many are relatively minor. This particular quake is noteworthy not only because of its magnitude but also because it was felt in the capital, highlighting the potential impact on urban centers that house significant populations. Furthermore, the country has been facing severe landslides that have exacerbated the challenges faced by its citizens, leading to loss of life and property.
In summary, a 4.9 magnitude earthquake impacted Ethiopia on Sunday evening, with reports indicating minor damages and widespread feeling of the tremors in various locations including the capital, Addis Ababa. The earthquake is part of Ethiopia’s ongoing geological activity, compounded by an existing crisis of landslides across the nation that have threatened lives and infrastructure. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, with no immediate cause for alarm expected beyond this incident.
Original Source: borkena.com
