Evacuations Commence Following 5.8 Magnitude Earthquake in Central Ethiopia

A 5.8 magnitude earthquake has led to evacuations in central Ethiopia, with no reported fatalities so far. A disaster response team is aiding 12 districts near the epicenter. The region has experienced increasing minor tremors and volcanic activity, raising alarm among residents, especially in Addis Ababa.

Evacuations are currently in progress in Abomsa, central Ethiopia, following a significant earthquake with a magnitude of 5.8, as announced by the nation’s Communications Office on Saturday. A team focused on disaster prevention and mitigation has been dispatched to assess and assist in 12 districts located near the earthquake’s epicenter, which is inhabited by approximately 80,000 individuals. Fortunately, officials report no fatalities linked to this seismic event at this time.

In recent weeks, the central and northeastern regions of Ethiopia, particularly Awash Fentale, have been experiencing a series of minor tremors, culminating in the strongest being recorded just last night. The situation has been aggravated by a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, an area known for its frequent seismic activity. The tremors, originating from Awash Fentale and its vicinity—roughly 142 miles (230 kilometers) from Addis Ababa—have been felt as far as the capital. This has raised concerns regarding a potential major disaster among residents.

Panic ensued across Addis Ababa as citizens reported feeling the quake around 4:00 AM (0100 GMT), prompting a flurry of activity and discussions on social media platforms. The recent weeks have seen the occurrence of over a dozen minor earthquakes in the Awash Fentale region, thereby amplifying fears surrounding the rising seismic activity. Notably, the increase in magnitude from 4.0 to nearly 6.0, alongside the five tremors documented in the area, indicates that the frequency and intensity of seismic activity are escalating alarmingly.

Ethiopia is situated in a seismically active region, characterized by frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity. This specific incident, alongside a series of minor tremors, highlights the urgent need for responsive disaster management strategies, particularly as more residents are affected by geological instability. The volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan further complicates the situation, emphasizing the critical nature of monitoring and preparedness in disaster-prone areas.

In summary, the recent 5.8 magnitude earthquake that struck central Ethiopia has prompted mass evacuations and heightened concerns regarding escalating seismic activity in the region. As precautionary measures are taken, authorities are actively engaged in ensuring the safety of approximately 80,000 residents. With the increasing frequency and intensity of earthquakes, a proactive approach to disaster management remains essential.

Original Source: www.yenisafak.com