Seismic Activity Intensifies Near Dofen Volcano, Ethiopia

A strong M5.5 earthquake hit Ethiopia’s Afar region on March 16, 2025, with a depth of 10 km. Approximately 6,000 people experienced severe shaking, and a Green alert was issued for low casualties. The region has faced ongoing volcanic and seismic risks since December 2024, prompting mass evacuations and concerns over infrastructure stability.

On March 16, 2025, a strong and shallow earthquake measuring M5.5 struck the Afar region of Ethiopia at 18:53 UTC. The earthquake was recorded at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC).

The epicenter of the earthquake was positioned 46 kilometers south of Awash, 63.8 kilometers south-southwest of Metahara, and 55.5 kilometers east of Dofen volcano. It is estimated that approximately 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, while 26,000 felt a very strong tremor, and the remaining population experienced varied levels of shaking intensity.

The USGS issued a Green alert indicating a low likelihood of casualties and economic damage, but highlighted that the local population resides in structures vulnerable to earthquakes, with informal and adobe block construction types being predominant. Recent seismic events have also posed risks of secondary hazards such as landslides.

An aftershock of magnitude M4.3 occurred later that same day near Abomsa, reinforcing ongoing concerns regarding the seismic activity in the region, which has persisted since a crisis began on December 22, 2024. This crisis has involved numerous earthquakes, significant ground fissures, and the emergence of a volcanic vent near Mount Dofen.

Following an earlier earthquake of M5.7 on January 4, 2025, mass evacuations were necessitated due to new openings in the ground. This series of events has resulted in the displacement of over 60,000 residents. Concerns regarding the structural stability of the nearby Kesem/Sabure Dam have also surfaced, as it was designed to withstand quakes up to M5.6, prompting fears of potential flooding if structural failure occurs.

Mount Dofen, at an elevation of 1,151 meters, is situated in the Main Ethiopian Rift, part of the East African Rift System, characterized by high seismic and volcanic activity. The ongoing tectonic movements in this area contribute to frequent earthquakes and ground deformation threats, necessitating continued vigilance among local authorities and residents.

The M5.5 earthquake near Dofen volcano has underscored ongoing seismic and volcanic challenges in Ethiopia’s Afar region. Despite a low likelihood of casualties, the earthquake has affected many residents and elicited concerns related to structural integrity, particularly regarding vital infrastructure like dams. Continuous monitoring and preparedness will be essential as this region remains susceptible to further seismic events and volcanic activity.

Original Source: watchers.news