A 5.8 magnitude earthquake has prompted evacuations in Abomsa, Ethiopia, with reports of trembling felt as far away as Addis Ababa. A disaster response team has been deployed to assist affected districts, and there have been no fatalities reported. The earthquake follows a series of minor tremors in the area, raising concerns about increased seismic activity.
Evacuations are currently in progress in Abomsa, located in central Ethiopia, following a notable earthquake measuring 5.8 on the Richter scale. The Ethiopian Communications Office announced on Saturday that a disaster response team has been deployed to twelve districts adjacent to the earthquake’s epicenter, which houses approximately 80,000 inhabitants. Fortunately, there have been no reports of fatalities or significant injuries from this seismic event.
In recent weeks, the central and northeastern regions of Ethiopia, specifically Awash Fentale, have experienced a series of minor tremors, culminating in last night’s significant quake. The situation has been further complicated by an eruption from Mount Dofan, situated in an area known for its seismic activity. The tremors were felt widely, reaching as far as Addis Ababa, prompting panic among residents who reported the quake at around 4:00 AM local time.
Moreover, this escalation in seismic activity is alarming, as more than a dozen minor earthquakes have been recorded in the Awash Fentale region alone. The increasing magnitude of these earthquakes, particularly the rise from 4.0 to nearly 6.0, along with the occurrence of five tremors in recent days, indicates a concerning trend of heightened seismic instability in the area, potentially signaling a major disaster ahead.
Ethiopia’s geological landscape is characterized by extensive tectonic activity, rendering the region susceptible to recurrent seismic events. The occurrence of earthquakes, particularly in central and northeastern Ethiopia, reflects the country’s positioning along several tectonic plate boundaries. Recently, the Awash Fentale area has been experiencing a series of tremors underscored by volcanic activity, particularly with the eruption of Mount Dofan. This has raised awareness and concern among residents and officials regarding the implications of intensified geological disturbances.
In summary, the recent 5.8 magnitude earthquake in central Ethiopia has necessitated evacuations and active disaster response measures. Despite the absence of casualties, the trend of increasing seismic activity in the region, paired with recent volcanic eruptions, poses significant risks. Continuous monitoring and preparedness for potential future seismic events are crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of affected communities.
Original Source: www.yenisafak.com
