Evacuations Prompted by 5.8 Magnitude Earthquake in Central Ethiopia

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake hit Abomsa, Ethiopia, prompting evacuations and the deployment of disaster response teams. No fatalities reported so far, but increased seismic activity and recent volcanic eruptions have raised concerns among residents.

Evacuations are currently taking place in Abomsa, central Ethiopia, following a significant 5.8 magnitude earthquake, as confirmed by the nation’s Communications Office on Saturday. Responding to the emergency, a disaster prevention and mitigation team has been deployed to 12 districts surrounding the epicenter, which is home to approximately 80,000 residents. Fortunately, there have been no reports of fatalities so far, stated the officials.

Ethiopia’s central and northeastern regions, particularly Awash Fentale, have been experiencing a series of minor tremors in recent weeks, culminating in the strongest quake being recorded last night. The situation has been compounded by a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, a location known for its frequent seismic activities. The tremors, originating from Awash Fentale and neighboring areas—approximately 142 miles (230 kilometers) from Addis Ababa—have generated concern as the seismic disturbances have been felt as far away as the capital, leading to fears of a potential disaster.

The quake, which occurred around 4:00 AM local time (01:00 GMT), incited panic among residents of Addis Ababa, prompting a flurry of social media discussions regarding the seismic event. In the preceding weeks, over a dozen minor earthquakes have been recorded in the Awash Fentale area, escalating public anxiety regarding increasing seismic activity. This rise in magnitude from 4.0 to nearly 6.0, along with the occurrence of five tremors within the region, indicates that seismic events are becoming both more frequent and more severe.

The recent seismic activities in Ethiopia highlight the geological volatility of the region, particularly in central and northeastern areas, where there is a history of tremors and eruptions. The recent earthquakes have aroused concerns among the residents, particularly given the significant magnitude and frequency of the events. Volcanic eruptions, such as that of Mount Dofan, further complicate the situation, drawing attention to the potential for a more significant geological disaster. Authorities are emphasizing preparedness and response strategies to mitigate risks to the population.

In summary, the 5.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Abomsa, Ethiopia, has led to precautionary evacuations as local authorities mobilize resources to address the situation. While no fatalities have been reported, the increased seismic activity, coupled with recent volcanic eruptions, has raised alarms among residents and government officials. Continuous monitoring and disaster prevention efforts are essential in managing the implications of these geological events.

Original Source: www.yenisafak.com