Evacuations are underway in central Ethiopia following a 5.8 magnitude earthquake. Local authorities have dispatched disaster response teams to assist affected districts, though no fatalities have been reported. The region has experienced a series of minor tremors, culminating in this significant seismic event, exacerbated by volcanic activity at Mount Dofan.
Evacuations are currently being implemented in Abomsa, a town in central Ethiopia, following a 5.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the region early Saturday morning. The Ethiopian Communications Office reported that a disaster response team has been sent to provide assistance in 12 districts surrounding the earthquake’s epicenter, which is home to approximately 80,000 residents. Thankfully, there have been no confirmed fatalities at this time.
In addition to this significant seismic event, the region has experienced numerous minor tremors over the past few weeks, with the most powerful occurring recently. The situation has been further complicated by a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, which is located in a seismic hotspot. Tremors have been reported as far away as Addis Ababa, approximately 142 miles from the epicenter, prompting alarm among residents, who felt the quake around 4:00 AM local time.
The earthquakes in the Awash Fentale area have raised ongoing concerns regarding the safety of the local population, as the magnitude of these tremors has significantly increased from 4.0 to nearly 6.0. Additionally, the occurrence of five distinct tremors in this region signals a potential escalation in seismic activity, which calls for heightened vigilance and preparedness among the communities affected.
Ethiopia’s central and northeastern regions have a history of seismic activity, frequently experiencing minor tremors. The recent rise in the strength and frequency of these earthquakes, particularly the 5.8 magnitude event, has sparked concern among local authorities and residents alike. The added complication of a volcanic eruption nearby raises further alarm about the potential for disaster in this area, necessitating immediate evacuation and relief efforts.
In summary, the 5.8 magnitude earthquake that struck central Ethiopia has led to significant evacuations in Abomsa and surrounding districts. With no fatalities reported, the focus remains on disaster response and support for the affected communities. The recent increase in earthquake activity in conjunction with volcanic eruptions highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness in regions prone to seismic events.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
