A 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck northern Ethiopia on Friday amid a volcanic eruption. The incident follows several months of intense seismic activity in the region, leading to evacuations and structural damages. No injuries have been reported, but residents face serious risks with collapsing houses due to frequent tremors, as confirmed by local officials and reports.
A 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck northern Ethiopia on Friday, aligning with a volcanic eruption that had been anticipated following months of heightened seismic activity. The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) reported no immediate injuries from the earthquake. Aden Bela, a local official, confirmed that the eruption occurred at approximately 5:30 a.m. local time near Segento in the Afar region. Although the crater has ceased emitting smoke, continuous lava flow has been reported. Evacuations of residents and livestock were carried out, although specifics on numbers were not disclosed. The United States Geological Survey has recorded over 67 earthquakes in the area since late September, intensifying concerns among local inhabitants fabricating perilous living conditions. Reports indicate that more than 30 houses have succumbed to the tremors, which have become increasingly frequent and severe.
Residents conveyed their distress, stating the perilous nature of their environment, as one individual remarked, “Houses are collapsing day by day.” The situation remains fluid, with the community on high alert for further seismic or volcanic phenomena.
Ethiopia is situated within the East African Rift system, an area characterized by tectonic activity including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. The phenomenon arises due to the divergent movement of tectonic plates, which leads to frequent seismic occurrences. Over the past few months, northern Ethiopia has experienced increased seismic activity, particularly in the Fantale region, highlighted by more than 67 recorded earthquakes since late September. The volcanic activity surrounding this area has raised concerns regarding the safety of local residents and infrastructure.
In summary, the recent 5.5 magnitude earthquake in northern Ethiopia coincides with a volcanic eruption, marking a period of significant seismic disturbances in the region. The local government has taken precautionary measures by evacuating affected citizens and livestock. The continuing seismic activity poses threats to infrastructure and safety, necessitating ongoing assessment and monitoring.
Original Source: news.az
