Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake Strikes Near Dofen Volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar Region
On March 16, 2025, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck near Dofen volcano in Ethiopia, affecting thousands and leading to a low likelihood of casualties. The ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis has already displaced over 60,000 residents, and structural concerns regarding the Kesem/Sabure Dam have emerged amid increased seismic activity in the region.
On March 16, 2025, a strong and shallow earthquake of magnitude 5.5 struck the Afar region of Ethiopia, occurring at 18:53 UTC (21:53 local time) at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The epicenter was located approximately 46 kilometers south of Awash and 63.8 kilometers south-southwest of Metahara, near the Dofen volcano, which is of particular interest due to ongoing volcanic activity in the region.
An estimated 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, with 26,000 feeling very strong tremors, 14,000 strong shakes, and 30,000 moderate shaking. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has issued a Green alert, indicating a low likelihood of casualties or significant economic losses, although the region’s population resides in structures vulnerable to earthquakes.
Since December 22, 2024, the Dofen volcano region has faced an ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis characterized by a series of moderate to severe earthquakes, significant ground fissures, and the emergence of a new volcanic vent. Following a prior earthquake on January 4, 2025, which measured 5.7, mass evacuations were mandated as large cracks appeared, displacing over 60,000 residents.
Concern has also been raised regarding the structural integrity of the Kesem/Sabure Dam, which is designed to withstand earthquakes up to magnitude 5.6. Given the current seismic activity, experts warn that a failure of the dam could lead to catastrophic flooding, jeopardizing the safety of hundreds of thousands.
Mount Dofen, towering at 1,151 meters (3,776 feet) above sea level, is situated in the seismically active Main Ethiopian Rift, a part of the East African Rift System, known for frequent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and ground deformation. The region’s tectonic activities stem primarily from the divergence of tectonic plates and magma intrusions beneath the Earth’s surface.
The magnitude 5.5 earthquake near Dofen volcano highlights the ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis in Ethiopia’s Afar region, marked by significant seismic activity and the displacement of thousands of residents. Despite a green alert for fatalities and economic loss, the potential risk to structures and infrastructure, such as the Kesem/Sabure Dam, remains a critical concern as the area continues to grapple with its geological challenges. Continued monitoring and preparedness are essential as the situation develops.
Original Source: watchers.news
