Powerful Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia’s Afar Region, Causing Panic and Destruction
A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Ethiopia’s Afar region on Sunday, causing widespread panic and damage. With the epicenter near Awash City, the tremor was felt across the country, including Addis Ababa. Emergency responses are hampered by poor infrastructure, but the government is sending aid. Aftershocks are expected in the weeks to come.
On Sunday, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Ethiopia’s Afar region, resulting in widespread destruction and panic among residents. The epicenter was located approximately 45 kilometers north of Awash City, a known site of geological activity. This earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, perceptible in numerous parts of the country, including the capital city, Addis Ababa.
In recent weeks, Ethiopia has experienced several tremors; one significant quake of magnitude 5.2 was recorded 46 kilometers east of Adigrat on February 23. Additionally, a 6.0 magnitude quake occurred near Metahara city earlier in the month but did not cause major damage due to its distant location from populated areas. While Ethiopia is generally less seismically active than other regions, the Afar area is part of the East African Rift, where geological instability is prevalent.
The infrastructure in Afar is sparse, complicating efforts for emergency responders to assist those in need. Many villages remain isolated, suffering from disrupted phone lines and electricity outages. The Ethiopian government has mobilized additional resources, including medical teams and food supplies, though reaching remote locations may require time.
This earthquake exacerbates existing challenges in the region, such as drought conditions and resource scarcity. Authorities are advising citizens to stay vigilant as aftershocks are anticipated in the coming days, while the full assessment of damage will happen as rescue operations advance.
The recent earthquake in Ethiopia’s Afar region highlights the vulnerability of this area to seismic activity, although such destructive events are uncommon. The ongoing challenges of limited infrastructure and resource access compound the impact of this disaster. Government efforts are underway to provide necessary assistance, but logistical hurdles remain significant. Citizens are urged to remain cautious as aftershocks are expected, and the extent of the damage will be evaluated in the following days.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
