Understanding Earthquakes and Volcanic Activity in Ethiopia’s Afar Region
Ethiopia’s Afar region, particularly Awash Fentale, faces earthquakes and potential volcanic threats due to its active geological setting in the Great Rift Valley. A recent swarm of over 200 quakes has prompted evacuations and heightened concern over future eruptions. Ongoing geological processes suggest the possibility of significant changes beneath the surface, emphasizing the need for improved monitoring and community engagement to mitigate risks.
In January 2025, a series of earthquakes and volcanic activity caused a mass exodus from Awash Fentale in Ethiopia’s Afar region. This area lies within the tectonically active Great Rift Valley, which has seen significant seismic and volcanic events over the past 800 years. Notably, major eruptions occurred in 1250 and 1820 AD.
The tectonic events in Fentale are part of a long-term geological process occurring beneath the Earth’s surface, eventually leading to continental separation and the formation of a new ocean. Gemechu Bedassa Teferi, a geologist studying the Main Ethiopian Rift, explains the underlying causes of these seismic activities.
The fragmentation of continents 18 million years ago led to the formation of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. A rift developed in the Afar Depression around 11 million years ago, where molten rock from the mantle rises and can lead to volcanic eruptions through weaknesses in the Earth’s crust. The simultaneous movement of the crust creates a gap and generates seismic energy, causing earthquakes.
The Afar region ranks among the most tectonically active zones globally. Recently recorded events in Fentale and nearby Dofan involve molten rock surfacing as the Earth’s crust fractures. While no volcanic eruption has occurred this time, over 200 earthquakes above magnitude 4 have been documented in five months, with the strongest reaching 6 on the Richter scale.
Recent seismic activity has led to structural damage across various infrastructures, with even citizens in the capital, Addis Ababa, feeling tremors nearly 190 km from the epicenter. Historically, the strongest quake in Ethiopia was a 6.5-magnitude event in 1989, causing considerable destruction to vulnerable structures.
The last recorded eruption at Fentale was in 1820. Earthquake activity often precedes volcanic eruptions, raising concerns that current tremors may indicate future eruptions in the vicinity of active volcanoes.
Satellite imagery indicates that the earthquakes in Fentale result from hot molten rock pushing from 10 km below the surface. Future outcomes may vary depending on factors such as temperature, viscosity, and the strength of surrounding materials. Three potential scenarios include the cooling and solidification of molten rock, an eruption through vertical or lateral movement, or interactions with other molten materials leading to significant volcanic events.
Further geological uncertainties necessitate enhanced prediction capabilities to manage potential hazards. Scientists advocate for improved monitoring techniques, including volcanic gas analysis, GPS tracking, and geophysical assessments. Additionally, fostering collaboration between scientists and government officials will be crucial to effectively engage communities at risk from these geological phenomena.
Ethiopia’s geological activity, marked by earthquakes and potential volcanic eruptions, stems from tectonic processes in the Great Rift Valley. Understanding this dynamic environment is essential for predicting future events and mitigating risks for affected communities. Concerted efforts in scientific monitoring and collaboration with local governments can enhance preparedness and safety for residents in these volatile regions.
Original Source: theconversation.com
