A TikTok video claiming to show an earthquake in Addis Ababa on October 6, 2024, has been identified as PARTLY FALSE. Although an earthquake did occur on that date, the footage used in the video was originally published in 2022 related to an event in Fukushima, Japan.
A recent TikTok video claiming to show an earthquake occurring in Addis Ababa’s Summit area on October 6, 2024, has been identified as PARTLY FALSE. The original post, which circulated on social media in Amharic, asserted that an earthquake happened at night in Addis Ababa. On the same day, reports confirmed a low-magnitude earthquake struck at 8:10 p.m. and was felt in various locations, including Meskel Square and Kazanchis. However, investigation revealed the video had been publicly available since 2022. Specifically, the footage was shared by Cadena Ser news outlet on March 16, 2022, in connection with a tsunami warning issued after a significant earthquake in Fukushima, Japan, measuring 7.3 in magnitude. This original source was also disseminated on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), alongside discussions of earthquakes in that region. PesaCheck, a fact-checking initiative dedicated to addressing misinformation across social media, has thoroughly examined this TikTok video and classified its content as misleading based on these findings. This assessment is part of PesaCheck’s ongoing efforts to ensure public awareness and discernment regarding the information consumed online, particularly about significant events such as earthquakes. By collaborating with platforms like Facebook, PesaCheck aims to provide context and verification for potentially misleading claims circulating in today’s digital landscape.
The topic of misinformation related to natural disasters, such as earthquakes, is increasingly relevant, especially in the age of social media where content can easily be shared and misrepresented. In this context, the spread of a TikTok video purporting to show an earthquake in Addis Ababa highlights the necessity for fact-checking initiatives. It underscores the importance of verifying sources before disseminating information that can cause panic or mislead the public. The examination performed by PesaCheck reveals the ongoing challenge of distinguishing between genuine events and fabricated or repurposed content.
In conclusion, the TikTok video in question was identified as PARTLY FALSE through diligent fact-checking. While an actual earthquake did occur in Addis Ababa on October 6, 2024, the video in circulation was not contemporaneous with this event and had been previously published in 2022. This incident emphasizes the vital role of organizations like PesaCheck in combating misinformation, particularly concerning significant public safety issues like natural disasters. Enhancing public awareness and promoting critical evaluation of information sources remain crucial in today’s interconnected world.
Original Source: pesacheck.org
