Ethiopia’s geological activity, including earthquakes and volcanoes, is driven by the East African Rift Valley. Research reveals significant processes beneath the surface and highlights the need for better monitoring and preparedness for potential volcanic eruptions that may follow recent seismic events in the Fentale area.
Ethiopia is geologically active, experiencing earthquakes and volcanic activity primarily due to the East African Rift Valley, a result of tectonic processes that have evolved over millions of years. According to geologist Gemechu Bedassa Teferi, the region serves as a natural laboratory indicative of an impending continental split that may eventually lead to the formation of a new ocean.
Approximately 18 million years ago, tectonic movements caused the separation of continents, leading to the formation of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. About 11 million years ago, a significant crack developed beneath the Afar Depression in northeastern Ethiopia. This area lies atop the Earth’s mantle, a hot, semi-solid layer that drives tectonic movements and volcanic eruptions by forcing molten rock upwards through crustal weak points.
As the mantle material rises, it initiates both volcanic activity and ground rifting. The resulting gaps in the Earth’s crust are filled with molten rock, generating immense friction that releases energy in the form of seismic waves. These waves propagate outward, resulting in the earthquakes experienced in the region, particularly noted during the recent seismic swarm near Fentale.
In recent months, over 200 earthquakes, some measuring greater than 4 on the Richter scale, have occurred in the Fentale area. Notably, the strongest earthquake recorded had a magnitude of 6.0. Although there have been no volcanic eruptions recently, the historical significance of earthquakes as precursors to eruptions raises concern for potential volcanic activity, especially considering the last eruption in Fentale was in 1820.
Research utilizing satellite radar technology has revealed that these earthquakes stem from hot molten rock pushing upward from about 10 kilometers below the surface near Awash Fentale. The potential outcomes of this geological activity depend on several factors, including the temperature and viscosity of the molten material and the strength of surrounding geological structures.
Three scenarios could unfold: the cooling of molten rock leading to solidification, potential volcanic eruptions as molten rock reaches the surface, or lateral interactions between molten materials that might result in a large eruption. The dynamic geological nature of the region implies that further monitoring and research are essential for hazard prediction and mitigation efforts.
Enhanced scientific monitoring techniques, including volcanic gas measurements and GPS tracking, are recommended to improve hazard preparedness. Additionally, collaboration between scientists and government officials is crucial for engaging affected communities and protecting public safety against potential geological threats.
Ethiopia’s earthquake and volcanic activity are largely due to the dynamic processes associated with the East African Rift. Research highlights the geophysical characteristics influencing seismic events and potential volcanic eruptions in the region. Effective scientific monitoring and collaboration between experts and governmental bodies are essential for forecasting hazards and safeguarding communities in affected areas.
Original Source: www.downtoearth.org.in
