M5.5 Earthquake Strikes Afar Region Near Dofen Volcano, Ethiopia
A significant M5.5 earthquake struck Ethiopia’s Afar region on March 16, 2025, at a depth of 10 km, triggering severe shaking felt by thousands. The area is facing a prolonged seismo-volcanic crisis, with evacuation efforts ongoing due to the risks of volcanic eruptions and structural instability, especially concerning the Kesem/Sabure Dam.
On March 16, 2025, a notable earthquake of magnitude 5.5 struck the Afar region in Ethiopia at 18:53 UTC (21:53 local time). The quake occurred at a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles), with agencies such as the USGS and EMSC reporting consistent data on its magnitude and location.
The epicenter was situated 46 km (28.6 miles) south of Awash, 63.8 km (39.7 miles) south-southwest of Metahara, and 55.5 km (34.5 miles) east of the Dofen volcano. An estimated 6,000 people experienced severe shaking, while 26,000 reported very strong tremors, 14,000 strong, and 30,000 moderate.
The USGS has issued a Green alert concerning this earthquake, indicating a low likelihood of casualties or significant damage. However, most structures in the region are vulnerable to seismic activity. Predominantly, informal constructions made from metals, timber, and adobe blocks are at risk, although resistant structures do exist.
Recent seismic activity has led to secondary hazards, including landslides, which may contribute to potential losses in the area. A moderate aftershock with a magnitude of 4.3 occurred at 21:20 UTC on the same day.
The earthquake is part of a prolonged seismo-volcanic crisis affecting the Dofen volcano area since December 22, 2024. This crisis has included numerous moderate to strong earthquakes, the recent formation of large ground fissures, and a newly opened volcanic vent in the Afar region.
Following an earlier magnitude 5.7 quake on January 4, 2025, significant evacuations were conducted due to the emergence of cracks and displacement of over 60,000 residents. Notably, a new volcanic vent has raised fears of an eruption at Mount Dofen, which would mark the first recorded event for this volcano.
Concerns have also emerged regarding the Kesem/Sabure Dam, downstream from the volcanic area. While designed to withstand earthquakes up to M5.6, the ongoing seismicity poses risks for potential structural failure, which could lead to severe flooding and put many lives at risk.
Mount Dofen, rising to 1,151 m (3,776 feet) above sea level, is located within the Main Ethiopian Rift, part of the East African Rift System, a region known for its tectonic activity, frequent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and ground deformation due to active tectonic plate divergence and magma movement.
The magnitude 5.5 earthquake near Dofen volcano highlights the ongoing seismic and volcanic activity in Ethiopia’s Afar region. Although the immediate risk of significant casualties is low, severe structural vulnerabilities exist among the local population, exacerbated by prior seismic events. The potential for dam failure and volcanic activity raises urgent concerns regarding public safety.
Original Source: watchers.news
