Magnitude 5.8 Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia Amidst Rising Seismic Activity
A 5.8 magnitude earthquake hit Ethiopia, following a 5.5 quake and over 30 smaller tremors in the past week. The epicenter was located near Addis Ababa, raising concerns about potential significant geological threats. Authorities are taking steps to relocate at-risk residents to ensure their safety.
On Saturday, a significant earthquake measuring 5.8 on the Richter scale struck Ethiopia, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the German Research Centre for Geosciences. The seismic event occurred approximately 42 kilometers east of the capital city, Addis Ababa, at a superficial depth of 10 kilometers. This follows a magnitude 5.5 earthquake that rattled the same region on Friday, along with more than 30 smaller aftershocks recorded over the past week, raising alarms among residents and authorities alike.
Ethiopia has been experiencing a series of seismic activities that have prompted growing concern among the local populace and regional authorities. Over recent weeks, the area surrounding the Awash Fentale region, located about 230 kilometers from Addis Ababa, has recorded an increase in minor tremors, emphasizing the potential for more significant geological disturbances. This culmination of seismic events has led relevant officials to take preventative measures to safeguard residents in high-risk zones.
In summary, the recent earthquake and its preceding minor tremors highlight a precarious seismic situation in Ethiopia, particularly in the regions near Addis Ababa and Awash Fentale. Authorities are urged to continue their preventive strategies to ensure the safety of residents amidst ongoing geological threats. The regional administrator’s commitment to relocating vulnerable populations is a proactive step toward mitigating potential disaster impacts, as concerns over more powerful tremors persist.
Original Source: www.khaleejtimes.com
