Strong Earthquake Near Dofen Volcano Causes Alarm in Ethiopia’s Afar Region
A M5.5 earthquake struck the Afar region of Ethiopia on March 16, 2025, with a depth of 10 km. The quake affected several communities, leading to a Green alert by USGS for the low likelihood of casualties. This seismic event is part of an ongoing crisis involving the Dofen volcano, which has displaced over 60,000 residents and raised concerns for dam safety in the region.
On March 16, 2025, a significant earthquake measuring M5.5 was recorded in Ethiopia’s Afar region, near the Dofen volcano. The earthquake occurred at 18:53 UTC (21:53 local time) and was reported by the US Geological Survey (USGS) to have a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) confirmed the same magnitude and depth.
The epicenter of the earthquake was situated 46 kilometers (28.6 miles) south of Awash, 63.8 kilometers (39.7 miles) south-southwest of Metahara, and approximately 55.5 kilometers (34.5 miles) east of Dofen volcano. It is estimated that around 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, while 26,000 felt very strong tremors and 30,000 experienced moderate shaking.
The USGS issued a Green alert, indicating a low likelihood of significant casualties or damage due to this seismic event. Nevertheless, many structures in the region remain vulnerable to earthquakes, particularly informal constructions and adobe blocks, which are commonplace.
A moderate aftershock registering M4.3 occurred later that day at 21:20 UTC, located 47 kilometers (30 miles) south-southeast of Abomsa. The seismic activity in this area forms part of a prolonged seismo-volcanic crisis that has impacted the Dofen volcano since late December 2024, leading to various geological disturbances.
The ongoing crisis has previously prompted mass evacuations following a M5.7 earthquake in January 2025. This event not only revealed significant ground cracking but also resulted in the displacement of over 60,000 residents. On January 3, 2025, concerns heightened due to the emergence of a new vent near Mount Dofen that released jets of steam, gas, and mud, posing risks of a volcanic eruption.
In conjunction with volcanic developments, experts expressed concern about the structural integrity of the Kesem/Sabure Dam located downstream of the volcano. Designed to withstand earthquakes up to M5.6, the dam’s stability is increasingly jeopardized by the ongoing high levels of seismic activity, which could lead to critical flooding if structural failure occurs.
Mount Dofen, which rises to 1,151 meters (3,776 feet), is located within the Main Ethiopian Rift, an area renowned for its seismic activity and natural calamities due to tectonic plate movements and magma activity.
In conclusion, the recent M5.5 earthquake in Ethiopia’s Afar region signifies the region’s vulnerability to seismic events and the ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis. With significant displacement of residents and concerns about structural integrity, particularly regarding essential infrastructure such as the Kesem/Sabure Dam, the situation calls for continued monitoring and preparedness. The geological complexities of the Main Ethiopian Rift further underline the inherent risks faced by local populations.
Original Source: watchers.news
