Ethiopia’s earthquakes and volcanoes are linked to geological processes in the East African Rift Valley, which may eventually lead to a continental split. The region has experienced significant seismic activity, including over 200 earthquakes recently, prompting concern about potential volcanic eruptions.
Ethiopia’s geological activity, characterized by earthquakes and volcanoes, is rooted in processes that have developed over millions of years. Situated within the East African Rift Valley, the region is viewed as a natural laboratory where tectonic activity is leading towards a potential continental split and the formation of a new ocean. Researcher Gemechu Bedassa Teferi elucidates the science behind these phenomena, particularly the activities occurring in Fentale and the surrounding areas.
The geological history of Ethiopia dates back to the rifting of continents that began 18 million years ago, giving rise to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Approximately 11 million years ago, a rift appeared beneath the Afar Depression, located in northeastern Ethiopia. The region sits on a hot, semi-solid mantle layer, which is constantly in motion, allowing molten rock to erupt through weaknesses in the crust. This volcanic activity is coupled with the rifting process which creates gaps filled by molten rock and leads to earthquakes.
The Afar region is notable for its intense tectonic and volcanic activity. Recent events in Fentale, along with tremors in the Dofan area to the north, have resulted from this ongoing geological process. Notably, over the last five months, more than 200 earthquakes exceeding magnitude 4 have been recorded, with the strongest measuring 6 on the Richter scale. These tremors have caused damage to infrastructure in the region, including buildings and roads, and were felt as far away as Addis Ababa, approximately 190 km from the epicenter.
Historically, notable seismic events include a major earthquake in 1989 with a magnitude of 6.5, which caused significant damage. The last volcanic eruption in Fentale occurred in 1820, and seismic activity often precedes such eruptions, heightening concerns about future volcanic events in the area.
Satellite radar imagery indicates that the recent earthquakes in Fentale stem from molten rock pushing upward from approximately 10 km beneath the surface. The potential outcomes of this activity are complex and hinge on various factors, including the temperature and viscosity of the molten rock and the strength of surrounding geological material. Possible scenarios include the solidification of molten rock, an eruption, or lateral movement causing further interactions with other molten materials.
These unresolved geological processes emphasize the need for improved predictive measures against potential hazards. Scientists advocate for enhanced monitoring practices, such as gas measurements and GPS tracking, alongside the establishment of effective communication strategies between scientists and governmental entities to inform and prepare at-risk communities.
Ethiopia’s geological landscape, marked by earthquakes and potential volcanic eruptions, arises from extensive tectonic processes. The East African Rift Valley, responsible for these phenomena, is a site of complex interactions between molten rock and the Earth’s crust. Recent seismic activity in Fentale highlights the importance of monitoring and preparedness in mitigating future natural hazards in this scientifically invaluable region.
Original Source: www.downtoearth.org.in
