Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake and Volcanic Eruption Impact Northern Ethiopia
A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck northern Ethiopia, coinciding with a volcanic eruption. There are no reported injuries, but significant damage occurred, including the collapse of homes due to frequent tremors. Increased seismic activity in the region has raised concerns among local residents.
On Friday, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck northern Ethiopia, coinciding with a volcanic eruption in the region. This event, confirmed by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre, follows several months of increased seismic activity. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries thus far. Local official Aden Bela mentioned that the eruption occurred at 5:30 a.m. near Segento in the northeastern Afar region, with ongoing lava flow, although the crater had ceased emitting smoke. Residents in the affected vicinity highlighted extensive damage, including the collapse of over 30 homes, aggravated by frequent and intense tremors.
The geographical context of Ethiopia, particularly in the northeastern Afar region, is characterized by significant tectonic activity, making it prone to both earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The region is part of the Great Rift Valley, where tectonic plate movements frequently result in seismic events. Increased monitoring by agencies such as the US Geological Survey has tracked more than 67 earthquakes since late September, indicating a period of heightened activity leading up to this recent earthquake and volcanic eruption.
In summary, the magnitude 5.5 earthquake and the accompanying volcanic eruption in northern Ethiopia underscore the region’s vulnerability to tectonic phenomena. Despite the apparent risk of infrastructural damage and potential hazards to local populations, emergency measures such as evacuations of residents and livestock have begun. Authorities and geological agencies continue to monitor the situation closely as developments unfold.
Original Source: news.az
