Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake Strikes Near Dofen Volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar Region
On March 16, 2025, a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck Ethiopia’s Afar region, impacting thousands of residents. The USGS noted that the earthquake, with a depth of 10 km, posed low risks of casualties and economic losses. This event is part of an ongoing crisis linked to volcanic activity at Dofen volcano, causing evacuations and structural concerns regarding local infrastructure, particularly dams.
On March 16, 2025, a strong and shallow earthquake measuring M5.5 struck the Afar region of Ethiopia at 18:53 UTC. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake’s depth at 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) confirmed the same magnitude and depth. The epicenter was situated approximately 46 kilometers south of Awash and 55.5 kilometers east of the Dofen volcano.
An estimated 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, while 26,000 reported very strong tremors, 14,000 reported strong shaking, and 30,000 felt moderate vibrations. The USGS issued a Green alert indicating a low likelihood of casualties or significant economic losses from this earthquake. Nonetheless, many residents live in structures that are vulnerable to seismic activity, particularly informal and adobe block buildings.
This earthquake forms part of an ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis that has affected the Dofen volcano since December 22, 2024. This crisis has seen multiple earthquakes, ground fissures, and the emergence of a new volcanic vent, raising concerns about a possible eruption. Following a strong M5.7 quake in January 2025, mass evacuations have led to the displacement of over 60,000 residents.
Notably, a moderate aftershock of M4.3 struck the region later on the same day, characterizing the persistent seismic activity in this tectonically active zone. The Ethiopian Geological Institute reported complications in evacuation efforts due to volcanic mudflows resulting from volcanic activity near Mount Dofen, which is historically noteworthy as this might be the first eruption.
In addition to volcanic hazards, there are concerns regarding the Kesem/Sabure Dam’s structural stability due to the sustained seismic threats. The dam is designed to resist earthquakes up to M5.6, and any failure could result in catastrophic flooding, putting the lives of hundreds of thousands at risk. Mount Dofen, located in the Main Ethiopian Rift, stands as an indicator of the ongoing tectonic activity characteristic of the East African Rift System.
The recent earthquake in Ethiopia’s Afar region highlights the ongoing geological challenges faced by the area, particularly the heightened seismic and volcanic activity surrounding Mount Dofen. With significant displacement of residents and risks associated with potential volcanic eruptions, this situation demands serious attention from authorities and continued monitoring of both earthquake and volcanic activity to mitigate further casualties and damages.
Original Source: watchers.news
