Concerns Emerge Over Potential Eruption at Fentale Volcano Amid…

A series of recent earthquakes near the Fentale volcano in Ethiopia has raised concerns about a potential eruption. The seismic activity, marked by magnitudes from 4.3 to 5.1, suggests a possible magma intrusion. With the last eruption in 1820, experts have warned local communities to stay vigilant and prepared for evacuations, highlighting the urgent need for monitoring due to the lack of a local seismic network.

Recent seismic activity near the Fentale volcano, located in Ethiopia’s Main Ethiopian Rift region, has raised concerns regarding a potential volcanic eruption. Over the past few days, multiple shallow earthquakes with magnitudes between 4.3 and 5.1 have been recorded, with the most significant tremor occurring on December 29, 2024. This earthquake, measuring 5.1, struck approximately 46 km north of Metahara, causing alarm in the surrounding areas, including Addis Ababa. Volcanologist Tom Pfeiffer from VolcanoDiscovery indicated that the increased seismic activity suggests a possible magma intrusion, heightening the risk of an eruption. Residents have reported feeling numerous less intense tremors, emphasizing the likelihood of additional earthquakes that are undetectable by global monitoring networks. Experts have advised local communities to remain vigilant and prepared for potential evacuations as the geological monitoring situation remains uncertain due to the absence of a local seismic network. The Fentale volcano, which last erupted in 1820, has a complex geological history, and any indication of magma movement should be taken seriously by both authorities and the population at large.

The Fentale volcano, situated at the northern end of the Main Ethiopian Rift, is part of the East African Rift System, a region known for its tectonic activity and frequent volcanic eruptions. The rift results from the divergence of the Nubia and Somalia plates, which often leads to shallow earthquakes associated with magmatic processes. The Fentale volcano’s last historic eruption occurred in 1820, resulting in basaltic lava flows, indicating its volcanic potential. Geological studies have revealed ongoing activity marked by fresh lava flows, which could suggest imminent volcanic threats. The area surrounding the volcano is populated by millions, increasing the importance of monitoring seismic activity and establishing evacuation protocols as necessary.

The recent series of earthquakes near the Fentale volcano in Ethiopia has raised significant concerns regarding a potential volcanic eruption in the region. With increasing seismic activity suggesting magma intrusion, experts have urged residents to remain on alert. The absence of a local seismic monitoring system complicates the situation, emphasizing the need for community preparedness for possible evacuations. Given the volcano’s recent historical activity and the current seismic patterns, vigilance is essential in ensuring the safety of the nearby population.

Original Source: watchers.news