Ethiopia: Samara University Reports Fissures, Structural Damage…

On 06 October 2024, a 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck the Awash Fentale district near Samara University, leading to structural damage in homes and ground fissures. The event was felt as far as Addis Abeba, prompting safety responses from the university’s Geology Department and advisories for local residents. Ongoing seismic activity in the region has raised concerns, with international geological agencies closely monitoring the situation.

Addis Abeba — Samara University has reported significant structural damage following an earthquake that struck the Awash Fentale district and its vicinity on the night of 06 October 2024. The seismic event, which occurred at 8:10 PM, measured a magnitude of 4.9 on the Richter scale and was felt as far away as Addis Abeba, as reported by the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA). According to the university, the tremor resulted in damage to residential buildings and the formation of ground fissures in the affected regions. In a recent statement published on social media platforms, Samara University emphasized that seismic activity in the Awash Fentale area has been ongoing for over two weeks. To assess the extent of the damage and promote safety awareness, the Geology Department of the university has been conducting field studies, particularly focusing on Sabure Kebele. During interactions with the local populace, the university’s geologists advised residents to remain clear of the mountainous areas surrounding Fentale as well as regions near the Kesem Dam, cautioning against the risks posed by further seismic activity. Furthermore, international geological organizations, including the U.S. Geological Survey, have been actively monitoring the series of earthquakes in the region and have documented the recent tremors, including last night’s event. Many residents in Addis Abeba have also reported experiencing the quake, prompting a swift response on social media where individuals shared their accounts. Numerous videos and posts illustrated residents, particularly those residing in condominiums, evacuating their buildings as a precautionary measure during the tremor. Samara University has expressed considerable concern regarding the ongoing seismic disturbances, especially in light of the distress caused by the damage inflicted upon local homes.

Ethiopia has been experiencing increased seismic activity, particularly in the Awash Fentale district, which has raised concerns among residents and authorities alike. Earthquakes can lead to significant structural damage, and the recent 4.9 magnitude tremor that occurred on 06 October 2024 is part of a series of seismic events that have affected the region. The geological assessment conducted by Samara University aims to provide critical information to safeguard the local population and assess the aftermath of such seismic occurrences. Understanding the geological phenomena in this area is vital for prevention and preparedness for potential future earthquakes.

In summary, the earthquake of 06 October 2024, with a magnitude of 4.9, has caused considerable structural damage in the Awash Fentale district and surrounding regions, as reported by Samara University. The ongoing seismic activity poses risks, prompting efforts from both the university and international geological agencies to monitor the area. Community awareness and safety measures are essential in addressing the potential for further disturbances and ensuring the well-being of residents.

Original Source: allafrica.com