Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake Hits Ethiopia, GFZ Reports

On January 11, 2025, a 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck near Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, at a shallow depth of 10 km. This event follows a series of minor shakes linked to nearby volcanic unrest, raising geological concerns.

An earthquake with a magnitude of 5.5 occurred in Ethiopia, specifically east of the capital city, Addis Ababa, during the early hours of Saturday. According to the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ), the earthquake was recorded at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (approximately 6.2 miles). This seismic activity follows a series of minor quakes in the region, which have been attributed to increasing volcanic activity nearby, suggesting an impending eruption that has raised concerns throughout the area.

Ethiopia has been experiencing heightened seismic activity, particularly in regions close to volcanic sites. The recent earthquake is part of a pattern of minor tremors that have made the area vigilant. With a nearby volcano indicating signs of potential eruption, these seismic events not only pose immediate threats to local communities but also foreshadow greater geological activities that may unfold in the future. Understanding the relationship between these earthquakes and volcanic activity is critical for risk assessment and disaster preparedness.

The recent earthquake in Ethiopia, registering a magnitude of 5.5, highlights the ongoing seismic risks associated with volcanic activity in the region. As the area has faced numerous minor quakes recently, the awareness of possible eruptions and their consequences is crucial for both the local population and disaster management authorities. Continuous monitoring and preparedness efforts are essential to mitigate the impact of such natural events in the future.

Original Source: www.jpost.com