Ethiopia’s 6.0 Magnitude Earthquake Triggers Evacuations Amid Volcano Concerns
A 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck near Oromiya, Ethiopia, late Friday night, affecting over 250,000 residents. With increasing seismic activity, evacuation orders have been issued for 80,000 individuals due to fears of volcanic eruptions from Fentale. This recent quake marks one of the strongest events in an ongoing seismic swarm that has raised substantial safety concerns in the region.
On Friday night, a significant earthquake with a magnitude of 6.0 struck near Oromiya, Ethiopia, affecting more than 250,000 residents. The event occurred at approximately 11:28 PM local time, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake’s epicenter was located roughly 3.7 miles NNE of Metahāra, and it was recorded at a shallow depth of 6.2 miles, closely situated to the Fentale volcano, an area known for recent volcanic and seismic activities.
The recent tremors are part of a series of earthquakes that have led to ongoing evacuations within the region. Approximately 80,000 residents have been relocated due to the increasing threat of volcanic eruptions from Fentale, which has demonstrated substantial seismic activity since late December 2024. The intensity of the earthquake on Friday raised palpable concerns among local population about their safety amidst the geological instability.
Witnesses reported the earthquake’s ferocity, with many residents fearing for their safety as roadways displayed rift openings that hindered escape routes. Ado Ali, a mother from Awash Fentale, remarked, “We heard a big noise from the ground; it sounds like a gun salute. Our animals get shocked. We were praying to get out safely.”
Amid these events, fears regarding the potential eruption of Fentale volcano have intensified. Local resident, Hassan Kamil, stated, “Dofan Mountain is the one behind me, and Fentale is the one in front of me; the rift created following the earthquake is now going from Dofan to Fentale Mountain.” Despite the fear of volcanic eruptions and potential destruction, fortunately, no injuries or fatalities have been reported thus far from the recent quake.
The earthquake that struck on Friday night was the most powerful event since the onset of the seismic swarm affecting the Oromiya, Afar, and Amhara regions, which has displaced countless citizens. Government officials have increasingly urged those remaining in high-risk areas to evacuate, given the potential for an eruption as seismic activity continues to escalate. Since the start of the year, over 80,000 individuals have already evacuated from their homes that faced damage due to previous earthquakes.
In summary, the recent 6.0 magnitude earthquake in Oromiya, Ethiopia, has heightened fears of volcanic eruptions while prompting the evacuation of thousands of residents. The area has experienced a persistent earthquake swarm since December 2024, raising urgent safety concerns among officials and citizens alike. With the risk of further geological activity, authorities continue to advise residents to seek safety in the face of these natural disasters.
Original Source: www.thetravel.com
