Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake and Volcanic Eruption Strike Northern Ethiopia
A magnitude 5.5 earthquake occurred in northern Ethiopia, coinciding with a volcanic eruption in the Afar region. The quake was recorded at a depth of 10 km, causing structural damage and necessitating evacuations. As of now, there are no reported injuries, but ongoing seismic activity continues to threaten local communities.
A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck northern Ethiopia on Friday, coinciding with a volcanic eruption in the Afar region after a prolonged period of seismic activity. The earthquake, reported by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC), occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, approximately 55 kilometers northwest of Asbe Teferi. Fortunately, no injuries have been documented thus far, but significant damage has been observed within affected communities.
Local official Aden Bela indicated that the volcano erupted near Segento at approximately 5:30 AM local time. Although the volcanic crater has ceased emitting smoke, lava flow continues, resulting in the evacuation of nearby residents and livestock for safety. The area has experienced a disruptive sequence of seismic events, with the US Geological Survey recording over 67 earthquakes since late September, predominantly in the Fantale region of the Great Rift Valley.
Residents are expressing deep concerns over the worsening conditions, as more than 30 homes have reportedly collapsed due to continuous and severe tremors. One local resident summarized the alarming situation by stating that, “Houses are collapsing day by day.” Overall, this environmental crisis poses a significant threat to the safety and stability of local communities, and urgent measures are necessary to address the challenges faced by those affected.
The recent seismic and volcanic activities in northern Ethiopia highlight the region’s geological instability, particularly within the Great Rift Valley. The area has long been susceptible to geological events, with residents frequently experiencing tremors and eruptions. This situation has escalated over recent weeks, resulting in numerous earthquakes that have raised fears of a larger disaster. The role of geological monitoring, such as that conducted by the US Geological Survey and the EMSC, becomes crucial during such times to ensure that timely information and assistance are available to affected populations.
In summary, the magnitude 5.5 earthquake and accompanying volcanic eruption in Ethiopia emphasize the region’s ongoing geological instability. While there have been no reported injuries at this time, the destruction of infrastructure and the evacuation of residents indicate a pressing need for safety measures and disaster response strategies. Ongoing seismic activities necessitate vigilant monitoring to protect and inform local communities.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
