Evacuations Underway After 5.8 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia
A 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck central Ethiopia, prompting evacuations in Abomsa. A disaster team is managing safety across 12 affected districts with a population of around 80,000. No fatalities have been reported despite increased seismic activity and a recent volcanic eruption nearby. Residents in Addis Ababa felt the tremors, leading to widespread panic and concern over future earthquakes.
Evacuations are currently in progress in Abomsa, located in central Ethiopia, following a significant earthquake measuring 5.8 on the Richter scale. The earthquake was reported by the nation’s Communications Office on Saturday. In response to the seismic activity, a disaster prevention and mitigation team has been mobilized to the 12 districts nearest to the epicenter, which comprises a population of approximately 80,000 individuals. Fortunately, officials have confirmed that there have been no fatalities associated with this event.
Ethiopia’s central and northeastern regions, particularly Awash Fentale, have experienced a series of minor tremors in recent weeks, culminating in the most powerful quake recorded last night. Compounding the situation is a volcanic eruption at Mount Dofan, situated in a geothermal zone with frequent seismic movements. The tremors, perceptible as far as 142 miles (230 kilometers) from Addis Ababa, have raised significant concerns regarding a potential major disaster.
Panic ensued across Addis Ababa as residents reported feeling the quake at approximately 4:00 AM (0100 GMT), which ignited extensive discussion across various social media platforms. In light of the recent seismic activities, which have seen over a dozen mild earthquakes in the Awash Fentale region, public anxiety has intensified regarding the possibility of a more serious geological event. The recent upswing in the magnitude of tremors, ranging from 4.0 to nearly 6.0, along with five recorded quakes in the area indicates an alarming trend of increased frequency and intensity of seismic activity.
The occurrence of earthquakes in Ethiopia, particularly in the central and northeastern regions, has garnered attention due to the potential risk they pose to local communities. The recent earthquake measuring 5.8 on the Richter scale is a significant event, yet there have been prior tremors in the region, highlighting a growing seismic trend. The proximity of notable geological features, such as Mount Dofan, which has also experienced volcanic activity, underscores the area’s vulnerability to geological disturbances.
In summary, the ongoing evacuations following the 5.8 magnitude earthquake in central Ethiopia reflect the serious implications of recent seismic activity. Although there have been no reported fatalities, the situation remains critical as authorities work to mitigate risks in the affected districts. Increased frequency and strength of tremors in the region amplify concerns regarding geological safety, prompting both local and national awareness concerning disaster preparedness.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
