Magnitude 5.8 Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia Amid Ongoing Seismic Activity
A magnitude 5.8 earthquake struck Ethiopia on Saturday, located 88 miles east of Addis Ababa at a shallow depth of 10 km. This incident follows a magnitude 5.5 quake a day prior and over 30 smaller tremors in the past week, indicating increased seismic activity.
On Saturday, an earthquake registering a magnitude of 5.8 struck Ethiopia, as reported by the US Geological Survey and the German Research Centre for Geosciences. The earthquake’s epicenter was situated approximately 88 miles (142 km) to the east of Addis Ababa, the capital city. It occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), which is generally considered significant due to the potential for widespread impact at such shallow depths. Notably, this area recently experienced a magnitude 5.5 tremor the previous day, alongside over 30 smaller seismic events in the past week, indicating heightened seismic activity in the region.
Ethiopia is part of the East African Rift, a geologically active zone susceptible to earthquakes due to tectonic plate movements. The occurrence of multiple earthquakes in a short period may point to underlying geological stress in the region. Institutions like the US Geological Survey monitor seismic events and provide crucial data for public safety and awareness, emphasizing the importance of understanding earthquake risks, especially in densely populated areas.
In conclusion, the magnitude 5.8 earthquake that struck Ethiopia on Saturday highlights the ongoing seismic activity affecting the region, which has seen repeated tremors in recent days. The shallow depth of the quake could result in significant effects, reminding the public and authorities of the need for preparedness in earthquake-prone areas. Continuous monitoring and public education are essential to minimize risks associated with such natural disasters.
Original Source: www.deccanherald.com
