Powerful Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia’s Afar Region, Causing Panic and Destruction
A 5.5 magnitude earthquake hit Ethiopia’s Afar region, causing destruction and panic. The epicenter was 45 kilometers north of Awash City, with reports of damage extending to Addis Ababa. Emergency response is hampered by the region’s sparse infrastructure, complicating aid efforts during ongoing seismic activity and existing drought conditions.
A powerful 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck the Afar region in northeastern Ethiopia, causing widespread destruction and panic among residents. The earthquake’s epicenter was situated about 45 kilometers north of Awash City, an area known for its geological activity. Despite occasional seismic events, such large, destructive earthquakes are relatively rare in this region.
The earthquake occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, strong enough to be felt across various parts of Ethiopia, including the capital, Addis Ababa. This tremor follows a series of earthquakes in recent weeks, including a magnitude 5.2 quake near Adigrat city on February 23 and a 6.0 occurrence near Metahara city earlier in the month, which did not cause significant damage.
Ethiopia’s Afar region is part of the East African Rift, a tectonic boundary where the continental landmass is slowly splitting apart, hence making it prone to seismic activity. The sparse infrastructure in Afar has hindered emergency response efforts, leaving many villages isolated with disrupted phone lines and power outages.
The national government is mobilizing additional resources, including medical teams and food supplies, but assistance may take time to reach isolated areas. This earthquake strikes amid existing challenges in the region such as drought and limited resources, exacerbating the situation for residents. Authorities warn that aftershocks are likely to continue in the coming days, and the full assessment of damage will take place as rescue operations progress.
In conclusion, the recent 5.5 magnitude earthquake in Ethiopia’s Afar region has led to widespread panic and destruction, affecting many communities. The region, prone to seismic activity due to its geological setting, faces challenges in emergency response owing to its sparse infrastructure. As the government responds to the crisis, ongoing aftershocks heighten concerns for residents, underscoring the need for urgent aid and support.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
