A powerful 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck Ethiopia’s Afar region on Sunday, causing considerable damage and panic. The epicenter was located 45 km north of Awash City at a shallow depth. With limited infrastructure hindering response efforts, the national government is dispatching aid. The region also faces existing challenges due to drought and resource scarcity.
On Sunday, a significant earthquake registering a magnitude of 5.5 struck the Afar region in northeastern Ethiopia, resulting in widespread destruction and panic among local residents. The epicenter of the tremor was located approximately 45 kilometers north of Awash City, a region noted for its geological activity. Initial assessments reveal that the earthquake’s effects were felt across various parts of the country, including the capital, Addis Ababa, further unsettling the populace.
The earthquake struck at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, reminiscent of the cruising altitude of a commercial airliner. Ethiopia has previously experienced seismic events, with a 5.2-magnitude earthquake recorded near Adigrat city just weeks prior on February 23, as well as a 6.0 magnitude tremor occurring earlier in the month near Metahara city. While the Afar region, part of the East African Rift zone, has periodic seismic activity, large and destructive earthquakes are uncommon.
Afar’s limited infrastructure has hindered emergency services from accessing some of the most severely impacted areas, with many villages isolated due to downed communications and power outages. Despite these challenges, the national government has mobilized additional medical teams and food supplies, although reaching the remote locations may take time.
This earthquake arrives at a particularly challenging moment for the region, which is grappling with severe drought and a scarcity of resources. Authorities have advised citizens to maintain vigilance, as aftershocks are anticipated in the coming days. A full assessment of the earthquake’s impact will be conducted as rescue operations progress.
In summary, the magnitude 5.5 earthquake that struck Ethiopia’s Afar region has caused significant alarm and damage, particularly in isolated areas due to infrastructural challenges. Emergency response measures are underway as the government deploys necessary resources, albeit with delays in reaching remote locations. The region’s ongoing drought further complicates the situation, leading to heightened concerns over the welfare of affected residents and potential aftershocks in the days ahead.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
