Magnitude-5.8 Earthquake and Eruption Near Addis Ababa: Implications for Ethiopia
On January 4, 2025, a magnitude-5.8 earthquake hit Ethiopia near Abomsa and Amhara. The quake prompted evacuations as Mount Dofan began erupting. Geologists warn of potential future tremors. Tensions remain high regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam’s impact on Egypt and Sudan.
On January 4, 2025, a magnitude-5.8 earthquake struck Ethiopia, primarily impacting areas near Abomsa and Amhara in the Afar region close to the capital, Addis Ababa. The earthquake’s epicenter was located at a depth of ten kilometers, as indicated by both the Ethiopian Geological Institute and the United States Geological Survey (USGS). In the wake of this seismic activity, Mount Dofan Volcano in the Afar region began to erupt, prompting local authorities to initiate evacuation plans for thousands of residents to ensure their safety.
Geologists have expressed concerns regarding the potential for larger tremors resulting from the ongoing seismic activity, with some researchers noting an alarming increase in the magnitude of the earthquakes, starting from a 5.0 and rising to 5.8. Abbas Sheraqi, an Egyptian geologist from Cairo University, cautioned that the current seismic events could be harbingers of even more significant geological disturbances. He also highlighted the risk of potential volcanic activity affecting nearby populated areas, particularly around Fentale Volcano.
The situation comes amidst ongoing tensions regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), which is a critical water resource for Egypt and Sudan. Both countries have long sought binding agreements with Ethiopia to secure their water rights as Ethiopia has proceeded with operations on the dam without their consent. The recent earthquake and volcanic activity add a layer of urgency to these discussions, as stakeholders are increasingly concerned about the implications of potential geological disruptions on this contentious issue.
Ethiopia’s geological landscape is notably active, which has led to significant seismic activity in the region. The recent earthquake is part of a disturbing trend of increasing magnitudes in seismic events. Additionally, the emergence of Mount Dofan’s eruption poses a significant risk to nearby communities, emphasizing the need for timely geological assessments. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, crucial for regional water rights, further complicates the situation, as Egypt and Sudan continue to negotiate their interests against Ethiopia’s developmental plans.
The occurrence of a magnitude-5.8 earthquake and the eruption of Mount Dofan Volcano highlight the ongoing geological challenges facing Ethiopia. The implications for local populations are severe, necessitating evacuation and careful monitoring of future seismic activity. Moreover, the situation exacerbates existing tensions regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, underlining the interconnected nature of geological events and geopolitical disputes in the region.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
