Dofan Volcano Erupts Amidst Seismic Crisis in Ethiopia’s Afar Region

On January 3, 2025, a vent opened at Dofan volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region, releasing jets of steam and mud amid ongoing seismic activity. This event is associated with a series of earthquakes that began on December 22, raising concerns of a potential eruption. The Dofan volcano, part of the East African Rift System, has a history of volcanic activity, with 1,900 people living within a 5 km radius, highlighting the urgent need for monitoring and preparedness.

On January 3, 2025, a notable vent opened at Dofan volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar region, expelling significant jets of steam, rocks, and mud. This geological event occurs amidst a seismic crisis that has been affecting the region since December 22, raising the potential for a volcanic eruption, which would be unprecedented. The Dofan volcano, also known as Dofen, is noted for its previous eruptions from fissures and features within the tectonically active East African Rift System.

The release from the new vent is indicative of hydrothermal or phreatic explosive activity, which occurs when magma heats groundwater, leading it to rapidly turn into steam. Local videos captured this phenomenon, showcasing jets of steam emerging from the ground. The origins of this vent will require further investigation to determine whether it is a new formation due to the recent seismic activities or a previously existing feature.

Volcanologist Tom Pfeiffer stated, “It has erupted frequently from fissures parallel to the rift axis and produced young lava flows and rows of cinder cones. … it would be indeed not entirely surprising if the volcanic activity takes place at Dofan.” The seismic unrest has prompted considerable concern, with increased earthquakes recorded and the potential risk extends to the local populations lying within several kilometers of the volcano.

The seismic activity spiked with numerous shallow earthquakes, peaking at a magnitude of 5.1 on December 29, 2024, near Dofan. “Over the past few days, seismic activity in the Awash area has picked up significantly,” Pfeiffer noted, underlining the urgency of the situation due to the lack of a robust seismic network to monitor these occurrences effectively.

Dofan volcano rises at 1,151 meters above sea level and features historical fumarolic activity with significant sulfur deposits along its southern flank. Geological assessments suggest the volcano has a history of eruptions throughout the Holocene epoch, marking it as a site of concern for potential volcanic activity. Approximately 1,900 individuals reside within a 5 km radius of Dofan, increasing the urgency for monitoring and potential evacuation plans amid these geological events. Emergency protocols are recommended, as nearby towns like Metahara and Awash report tremors felt by local populations, exacerbating the collective apprehension regarding a forthcoming eruption.

Located in the Dulecha district of Ethiopia’s Afar region, Dofan volcano is part of the East African Rift System, an area known for its tectonic activity. This region is significant due to the divergence of tectonic plates, leading to frequent volcanic and seismic events. Previous eruptions have taken place at Dofan, marked by youthful lava flows and the formation of cinder cones. The current crisis reflects both a geological and humanitarian concern, with inhabitants living near this active volcano potentially at risk following recent seismic disturbances.

In summary, the activity at Dofan volcano poses a substantial risk to nearby communities amid a notable seismic crisis that has been ongoing since late December 2024. The emergence of the new vent and associated steam jets signal heightened volcanic activity, necessitating close observation and preparedness for any future outbreaks. The importance of a robust seismic network in the area is underscored by the challenge of monitoring such geologically dynamic regions effectively. Given the potential for unprecedented eruptions, local authorities must establish readiness plans to ensure the safety of residents living in proximity to the Dofan volcano.

Original Source: watchers.news