A TikTok video claiming to show an earthquake in Addis Ababa in October 2024 is PARTLY FALSE. The earthquake occurred on October 6, 2024, but the video is from a 2022 earthquake in Fukushima, Japan. PesaCheck confirms the misinformation and encourages the public to verify content.
A recent TikTok video alleging to depict an earthquake occurring at the Summit area of Addis Ababa in October 2024 has been deemed PARTLY FALSE. Reports indicate that on the evening of October 6, 2024, a low-magnitude earthquake struck Addis Ababa at 8:10 PM, with tremors felt in areas including Meskel Square and Kazanchis. However, investigations through reverse image searches revealed that the video in question was actually recorded much earlier, dating back to March 16, 2022. The footage had originally appeared on the Cadena Ser news website in conjunction with an article discussing a tsunami warning issued for Japan following a significant earthquake in Fukushima. Further sharing of the same video was observed on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), specifically regarding seismic events in Japan. PesaCheck has undertaken a thorough examination of the TikTok post and, aligning it with their mission to combat misinformation, confirms the video’s misattribution. This fact-check is part of an ongoing series aimed at clarifying potential misinformation present on social media platforms. PesaCheck collaborates with social media entities such as Facebook to ensure accurate dissemination and public understanding of information circulated online.
The topic of misinformation related to natural disasters has gained prominence, particularly with the rise of social media. The ease of sharing videos and images can lead to confusion and the rapid spread of inaccurate information. Specifically, this incident illustrates how a video from a different context was misappropriated to create the illusion of a recent earthquake in Addis Ababa, despite the actual event being lower in magnitude and impact. PesaCheck serves as a critical resource in promoting accurate reporting and public awareness by providing verified facts regarding such occurrences and their representation in media.
In conclusion, the claims surrounding the TikTok video showcasing an earthquake in Addis Ababa in October 2024 have been debunked as PARTLY FALSE. The video’s origin dates back to a significant event in Japan, which highlights the need for vigilance against the dissemination of misleading content on social media platforms. As PesaCheck continues its efforts in fact-checking, it aims to educate the public on the importance of verifying information before sharing.
Original Source: pesacheck.org
