A 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck Ethiopia’s Afar region on Sunday, March 7, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake’s epicenter was located approximately 45 kilometers north of Awash city, a region known for its geological activity. The tremor, which occurred at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometers, was strong enough to be felt across several parts of the country, including Addis Ababa.
Series of Seismic Activities in Ethiopia
The earthquake is the latest in a series of tremors that have affected Ethiopia in recent weeks. The last recorded earthquake in the country occurred nearly two weeks ago, on February 23, 2017, when a 5.2-magnitude tremor struck 46 kilometers east of Adigrat city. Similarly, earlier this month, a 6.0-magnitude earthquake was recorded just six kilometers from Metahara city, although it did not cause significant damage due to its deeper epicenter.
Despite being slightly weaker than the Metahara earthquake, Sunday’s tremor was felt more widely, with reports of shaking from multiple areas, including the capital. Geological experts have highlighted that earthquakes measuring between 5.5 and 6.0 on the Richter scale have the potential to damage buildings and infrastructure, depending on their depth and location.
Impact and Affected Areas
According to the international earthquake-tracking website “Volcano Discovery,” the latest earthquake caused mild tremors in several cities, including Metahara, Mieso, Abomsa, and Gelemso. Residents in these areas reported experiencing shaking but no immediate reports of structural damage or casualties have been confirmed. The tremors also reached Kobo, Robit, and Debre Sina, where they were similarly described as mild.
While Ethiopia is not as seismically active as some other parts of the world, the Afar region sits within the East African Rift, a tectonic boundary where the African continent is gradually splitting apart. This geological setting makes the region prone to occasional seismic activity, though large, destructive earthquakes remain relatively rare.
Expert Analysis and Safety Recommendations
Seismologists have pointed out that while Sunday’s earthquake was moderate in intensity, its shallow depth increased the likelihood of ground shaking being felt across a wider area. The Ethiopian Institute of Geophysics has urged residents in affected regions to remain cautious and prepared for potential aftershocks. Experts recommend that people living in earthquake-prone areas secure heavy furniture, identify safe zones within their homes, and be aware of emergency evacuation procedures.
Government authorities are monitoring the situation closely and have assured the public that assessments are underway to evaluate any potential damage. Emergency response teams have been placed on alert, though no major incidents have been reported so far.
As Ethiopia continues to experience periodic seismic activity, researchers and local authorities are emphasizing the need for increased preparedness and early warning systems to mitigate risks associated with future earthquakes.
