A 5.8 magnitude earthquake struck central Ethiopia, prompting evacuations in Abomsa. No fatalities were reported despite the swift action of disaster teams. This event follows weeks of minor tremors, raising concerns about increasing seismic activity in the region, especially near Mount Dofan, which has also erupted recently.
Evacuations are currently underway in Abomsa, located in central Ethiopia, following a powerful earthquake registering 5.8 on the Richter scale. The Ethiopian Communications Office disclosed on Saturday that a dedicated disaster prevention and mitigation team has been deployed to 12 affected districts, which are home to approximately 80,000 residents. Fortunately, officials report that no fatalities have been recorded as a result of this seismic event.
In the preceding weeks, regions in central and northeastern Ethiopia, including Awash Fentale, have endured a series of minor tremors. The strongest of these tremors occurred last night, coinciding with heightened seismic activity. Compounding these challenges, a volcanic eruption occurred at Mount Dofan, a locality known for its frequent earthquakes, creating additional concern among the populace.
Residents of Addis Ababa, situated about 142 miles from the epicenter, experienced tremors around 4:00 AM local time, leading to considerable unease and extensive discussions on social media platforms. This recent earthquake is part of a pattern; over the past few weeks, more than a dozen minor earthquakes have been recorded in the Awash Fentale area, raising alarms about increasing seismic activity. The escalating strength, which has risen from a magnitude of 4.0 to nearly 6.0, coupled with multiple tremors, suggests an alarming trend of both frequency and intensity in seismic events in the region.
Ethiopia has a history of seismic activity, particularly in its central and northeastern regions. Recent weeks have seen a notable increase in both the number and strength of earthquakes, prompting significant concern among authorities and residents alike. The area is also prone to volcanic eruptions, such as that at Mount Dofan, which further exacerbates the risks associated with seismic events. The current situation calls for heightened vigilance and preparedness as the potential for future earthquakes looms.
In summary, the recent 5.8 magnitude earthquake in central Ethiopia has necessitated evacuations in the affected areas, with no reported casualties to date. The region continues to experience increased seismic activity, raising fears of potential future disasters. As residents cope with the aftermath of these tremors, the situation highlights the urgent need for disaster preparedness and response protocols in earthquake-prone areas.
Original Source: www.yenisafak.com
