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An earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale struck Awash Fentale and surrounding areas at 2:01 AM tonight, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Many residents in the region reported feeling the tremors, indicating the quake was widely experienced.
This earthquake is the strongest recorded in recent days among a series of seismic activities occurring mainly in the Awash Fentale area. Additionally, a minor volcanic eruption was reported today in Dulessa Woreda, Afar Region.
According to Gelology Hub, a research organization monitoring volcanic and seismic activities, the recent tectonic movements could increase the likelihood of volcanic eruptions. The organization noted that significant ground deformation has been observed in the area since September, with authorities evacuating around 700 people as a precaution.
Given the ongoing seismic activities, authorities are calling for increased vigilance. Over 10,000 people residing in high-risk zones may need urgent evacuation, according to Gelology Hub, which has reportedly communicated these concerns to the Ethiopian Embassy in Washington, D.C., and the US Geological Survey.
As tremors continue, multiple safety advisories are being issued to residents. Authorities urge people to stay alert for aftershocks and follow official guidelines to ensure their safety.
Stay tuned for further updates.
This is very worrisome. . This earthquake is not dying away but getting bigger and more frequent. The ground is splitting in many areas and leaving many huts cracking into two pieces. The usual and normal Mount Fentale volcano is gushing out steam, mud and fire. This is not a good sign. I call upon experts in seismology among our Diaspora to provide much needed expertise so a much more disaster can be avoided. This is not a man-made disaster that can be accurately predicted. But the government has been adequately forewarned. If this earthquake keeps creeping up and hit major metropolitan area like the capital, it is going to be a disaster where millions could perish. This is not funny, okay.