Ethiopia: 6.0 Magnitude Earthquake Triggers Evacuations in Oromiya Region

A 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck Oromiya, Ethiopia, prompting over 250,000 residents to feel strong tremors. With ongoing seismic activity threatening volcanic eruptions, officials have evacuated more than 80,000 people from vulnerable areas. Residents reported fears of trapped escape due to damaged routes, while assessments of damages and injuries are ongoing.

A powerful earthquake measuring 6.0 on the Richter scale struck near the densely populated Oromiya region of Ethiopia late Friday night, prompting over 250,000 people to experience significant tremors. The earthquake, recorded by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), hit at approximately 11:28 p.m. local time, with a shallow depth of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers) and an epicenter near Metahāra, close to the Fentale volcano, a site known for seismic and volcanic activity since late December.

Due to a series of earthquakes that have triggered potential volcanic activity, over 80,000 residents have been evacuated from their homes in the region. The tremors led to fears of a volcanic eruption from the once-dormant Fentale volcano, raising concern among the population as the seismic activity continues.

Residents throughout Oromiya reported feeling the earthquake, with many expressing fears of being trapped by damaged infrastructure. “We heard a big noise from the ground; it sounds like a gun salute,” stated Ado Ali, a mother of four in Awash Fentale, emphasizing the urgency for evacuation.

Local inhabitants fear the latest and strongest tremor could lead to an eruption, as multiple fissures have formed. “The rift created following the earthquake is now going from Dofan to Fentale Mountain,” observed Hassan Kamil, a resident of Seganto, highlighting the increasing volcanic threats in the area. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as assessments of damage continue.

Ethiopia’s earthquake swarm has been disastrous since December 2024, significantly impacting Oromiya, Afar, and Amhara regions. This recent earthquake, the strongest to date in this seismic series, has prompted officials to accelerate evacuation orders in light of the growing volcanic risks. More than 80,000 individuals have already been displaced, as authorities emphasize the importance of safety amid these dangers.

In summary, a 6.0 magnitude earthquake has struck the Oromiya region of Ethiopia, causing widespread fear and prompting evacuations due to the potential for volcanic activity. Local residents are increasingly concerned about their safety as seismic events continue. Authorities are urging those who have not evacuated to leave the area as safety remains a primary concern amid ongoing geological instability.

Original Source: www.thetravel.com