Significant M5.5 Earthquake Strikes Near Dofen Volcano, Ethiopia
On March 16, 2025, a shallow M5.5 earthquake hit Ethiopia’s Afar region, with an epicenter near the Dofen volcano. Approximately 6,000 felt severe shaking, while a Green alert was issued for low potential fatalities. The ongoing seismic activity raises concerns about the structural safety of local constructions and the Kesem/Sabure Dam. The area has faced an escalating seismo-volcanic crisis since December 2024, necessitating mass evacuations of over 60,000 residents.
On March 16, 2025, a significant earthquake with a magnitude of M5.5 struck the Afar region of Ethiopia, occurring at 18:53 UTC (21:53 local time). The earthquake had a shallow depth of 10 km (6.2 miles), as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC).
The epicenter of this seismic event was identified as being 46 km south of Awash, 63.8 km south-southwest of Metahara, and 55.5 km east of Dofen volcano. An estimated 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, while 26,000 felt very strong tremors and additional populations sensed moderate and strong shaking.
In light of the earthquake’s impact, the USGS assigned a Green alert for potential shaking-related fatalities and economic repercussions, indicating a low probability of casualties or damage. However, the structures in the region are predominantly vulnerable to seismic activities, particularly informal constructions and adobe block structures.
The area has experienced recent earthquakes that led to secondary hazards, including landslides, potentially exacerbating losses. Additionally, a moderate aftershock measuring M4.3 occurred approximately 47 km SSE of Abomsa at 21:20 UTC on the same day, also at a depth of 10 km.
This earthquake was part of a broader seismic and volcanic crisis affecting the Dofen volcano region, which has seen heightened activity since December 22, 2024, including the development of large ground fissures and the emergence of a significant volcanic vent.
Following a preceding M5.7 earthquake in early January 2025, which resulted in massive crack formations, mass evacuations were initiated, displacing over 60,000 residents. Moreover, concerning geological developments near Mount Dofen have raised concerns regarding a possible eruption, marking a first in recorded history for this volcano. Volcanic mudflows have further complicated evacuation efforts.
Additionally, structural integrity concerns have surfaced regarding the Kesem/Sabure Dam, designed to withstand up to M5.6 quakes. Experts caution that ongoing seismic activity surpassing this threshold could jeopardize dam safety, potentially resulting in catastrophic flooding and endanger hundreds of thousands.
Mount Dofen, located at an elevation of 1,151 m (3,776 feet) a.s.l., is situated within the tectonically active Main Ethiopian Rift. This region, forming a part of the East African Rift System, is prone to frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to the processes of tectonic plate divergence and magma intrusion.
The recent earthquake in Ethiopia’s Afar region, at M5.5, underscores the ongoing seismic and volcanic challenges faced by this area. The earthquake’s shallow depth and its proximity to vulnerable structures raise concerns about potential casualties and economic impact. With a significant population exposed to such seismic risks, along with potential issues surrounding the Kesem/Sabure Dam, preparedness and resilience measures are critical. Continued monitoring of the Dofen volcano’s activity remains imperative as authorities address the needs of the displaced local population.
Original Source: watchers.news
