Ethiopia’s Samara University Reports Structural Damage and Ground…

On October 6, 2024, a 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck the Awash Fentale district, causing structural damage and ground fissures. Samara University is conducting assessments and advising local residents against entering dangerous areas due to ongoing seismic threats. Reports indicate that the tremor was felt even in Addis Abeba, prompting evacuations in various buildings.

Ethiopia’s Samara University Reports Structural Damage and Ground Fissures Following 4.9 Magnitude Earthquake On the evening of October 6, 2024, a 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck the Awash Fentale district and its surrounding locales, prompting reports of structural damage across residential areas. The tremor, recorded at precisely 8:10 PM, was felt as far away as Addis Abeba, as reported by the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA). Samara University has confirmed significant damage to various buildings alongside notable ground fissures within the impacted zones. In response to the seismic activity, which has persisted for over two weeks, the Geology Department at Samara University is conducting thorough field assessments, particularly in Sabure Kebele, to ascertain the full extent of the damage and disseminate crucial safety information. Engaging with community members, the university’s geologists have advised local residents to refrain from entering the mountainous regions surrounding Fentale and areas in proximity to the Kesem Dam due to the potential for continuing seismic disturbances. Furthermore, international geological organizations, including the U.S. Geological Survey, are diligently monitoring the seismic events in the region, documenting each tremor, including the one that occurred last night. Residents of Addis Abeba have also reported sensations of the quake, with numerous individuals taking to social media platforms to recount their experiences. Several videos and posts captured individuals, especially those residing in condominiums, evacuating their premises as a preventive measure during the seismic event. Samara University has expressed grave concerns regarding the ongoing seismic disruptions, emphasizing the distress inflicted on local residents by the structural damage to their homes.

The recent earthquake in the Awash Fentale district highlights the increasing frequency of seismic activity in Ethiopia. This particular region has been experiencing tremors for more than two weeks, raising concerns among both local authorities and residents about the potential for future earthquakes. The efforts by Samara University’s Geology Department to conduct field assessments and advise the community underscore the importance of safety awareness in a seismically active area. The geological monitoring by international agencies further emphasizes the need for vigilance and preparedness in the face of ongoing seismic threats. With the earthquake being felt in distant areas like Addis Abeba, it illustrates the wider impact such events can have on the country’s populace.

In conclusion, the 4.9 magnitude earthquake that struck the Awash Fentale district has resulted in significant structural damage and raised alarms regarding ongoing seismic risks in the region. Samara University is actively assessing the damage and advising residents to exercise caution. The situation underscores the necessity for community awareness and preparedness in dealing with the challenges posed by seismic activity.

Original Source: allafrica.com