Evacuations Initiated After 5.8 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Central Ethiopia
A 5.8 magnitude earthquake has struck central Ethiopia, causing evacuations in Abomsa. A disaster response team has been deployed to assist the 80,000 residents in the affected districts. There are no fatalities reported, although the event has raised alarms due to previous seismic activity and volcano eruptions in the region.
On Saturday, evacuations began in Abomsa, located in central Ethiopia, following a significant 5.8 magnitude earthquake that prompted immediate response from the authorities. The nation’s Communications Office reported that a disaster prevention and mitigation team has been mobilized to assist in 12 districts near the earthquake’s epicenter, which houses approximately 80,000 residents. Fortunately, no fatalities have been reported thus far.
In addition to the earthquake, the region has been grappling with recent volcanic activity from Mount Dofan, further complicating the seismic situation. Central and northeastern Ethiopia, particularly areas such as Awash Fentale, have experienced a series of minor tremors leading up to this event, with the most substantial tremor occurring last night. The proximity of these tremors to the capital, Addis Ababa, approximately 142 miles away, has raised alarm among local populations, causing panic as many felt the earthquake’s impact around 4:00 AM (0100 GMT).
The frequency and intensity of seismic events in the Awash Fentale area underscore significant geological activity, as evidenced by numerous minor earthquakes recorded recently. The increase in tremor magnitudes, escalating from 4.0 to nearly 6.0, along with multiple occurrences over a short period, indicates a notable rise in seismic threats, heightening concerns among residents and authorities alike.
Ethiopia is located in a geologically active region known for its tectonic movements. Over recent weeks, the central and northeastern regions have seen increased seismic activity, including more than a dozen minor earthquakes. Such episodes are a reminder of the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters, particularly given the recurring minor tremors that have been reported in areas like Awash Fentale. The recent 5.8 magnitude earthquake is the most significant in this series, drawing attention from both local inhabitants and government officials. Furthermore, the volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan adds additional risk factors to the already precarious situation in the region.
In summary, the 5.8 magnitude earthquake in central Ethiopia has necessitated immediate evacuations in Abomsa, highlighting the region’s ongoing seismic challenges. Authorities have proactively dispatched disaster response teams to affected areas, though no casualties have been reported. As Ethiopia experiences increasing seismic activity, including recent volcanic eruptions, the potential for future disasters remains a pressing concern for residents and government officials alike.
Original Source: www.yenisafak.com
