Increased Seismic Activity at Ethiopia’s Fentale Volcano Raises Eruption Concerns

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A series of earthquakes near Ethiopia’s Fentale volcano indicates a potential eruption risk. The strongest tremor recorded was M5.1 on December 29. Experts suggest shallow magma intrusion could lead to an eruption. Local monitoring is insufficient, prompting authorities to alert affected communities.

Recent geological activity has raised alarm concerning the Fentale volcano in Ethiopia’s Main Ethiopian Rift, where a series of earthquakes have occurred. Recent seismic events, with magnitudes between 4.3 and 5.1, suggest heightened volcanic activity, particularly after a significant tremor occurred on December 29, measuring M5.1 and felt widely, including in Addis Ababa. The volcanic history of Fentale, which last erupted in 1820, may be repeating as scientists report concerns of a potential magma intrusion leading to an eruption.

No local seismic network currently exists to monitor the activity comprehensively, which complicates the situation; however, experts like Tom Pfeiffer from VolcanoDiscovery observe that the shallow depth of these events points to increasing volcanic risk. Residents have noted ongoing tremors, indicating numerous smaller earthquakes likely went undetected due to the lack of local monitoring capabilities. Furthermore, authorities have begun advising on precautionary measures, as communities in the vicinity, especially those near Metahara and Awash, could be impacted if the seismic activity escalates.

The Fentale volcano is situated within the East African Rift system, a tectonically active zone characterized by frequent earthquakes and eruptions. The region is home to over 3.4 million residents within a 100 km radius, heightening the urgency for preparedness as this area has experienced volcanic activity historically, including a caldera formation from past eruptions. Past geological events, including two confirmed eruptions during the Holocene, highlight the potential for catastrophic consequences should activity within the volcano increase significantly.

The Fentale volcano lies in Ethiopia’s active Main Ethiopian Rift, where the tectonic divergence of the Nubia and Somalia plates leads to frequent seismic and volcanic activity. This geological setting creates conditions favorable for volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, especially notable events of magma movement beneath the earth’s crust. Fentale’s historical eruptions and the geological composition present a continual risk to the densely populated areas surrounding the volcano. The lack of a local seismic monitoring network complicates timely assessments of potential threats, thus necessitating increased vigilance from local authorities and communities.

In summary, the recent increase in seismic activity near the Fentale volcano signals a heightened risk of potential eruptions due to possible magma intrusion. The historical context of Fentale’s eruptions adds weight to the concern, particularly as there are no local means for effective monitoring. Authorities are urging residents to prepare for potential volcanic eruptions as the geological phenomena develop, indicating a consequential intersection of natural forces and human habitation.

Original Source: watchers.news

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