Strong M5.5 Earthquake Strikes Near Dofen Volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar Region

On March 16, 2025, a M5.5 earthquake struck the Afar region of Ethiopia, drawing significant concern due to the area’s volcanic activity and vulnerable population. The quake’s epicenter was located near Dofen volcano, with thousands experiencing varying degrees of shaking. Evacuations and safety concerns surrounding local infrastructure, particularly the Kesem/Sabure Dam, have escalated due to the ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis in the region.

On March 16, 2025, at 18:53 UTC, a strong M5.5 earthquake occurred in Ethiopia’s Afar region, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The quake struck at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers (approximately 6.2 miles). It was also confirmed by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) with the same magnitude and depth reported.

The epicenter was identified 46 kilometers south of Awash, 63.8 kilometers south-southwest of Metahara, and 55.5 kilometers east of the Dofen volcano. Approximately 6,000 individuals experienced severe shaking, while 26,000 felt very strong tremors, and 30,000 reported moderate shaking in the area.

The USGS issued a Green alert indicating a low likelihood of casualties and economic losses due to the earthquake. Despite the alert, the region’s vulnerable populations reside in informal constructions that may not withstand severe seismic activity, although some resistant structures are present.

There are concerns regarding recent earthquakes in the region, which have led to hazardous secondary phenomena such as landslides. On the same day as the M5.5 quake, an aftershock of magnitude M4.3 was recorded southeast of Abomsa at a depth of 10 kilometers.

This seismic event is part of an ongoing crisis affecting Dofen volcano since December 22, 2024. Marked by multiple moderate to strong earthquakes, this crisis also includes significant ground fissures and the emergence of a volcanic vent, raising alarms of a potential eruption from Dofen, an unprecedented event in its history.

Evacuations began after an earlier M5.7 earthquake on January 4, 2025, which resulted in the appearance of large cracks, displacing over 60,000 residents. Additionally, the Ethiopian Geological Institute has reported volcanic mudflows, further complicating evacuation efforts.

There are critical safety concerns regarding the Kesem/Sabure Dam, which could face structural integrity challenges due to the heightened seismic activity. The dam is designed to withstand earthquakes up to M5.6; however, given the current seismic conditions, experts warn of the potential for catastrophic flooding if a failure occurs, posing a significant threat to local populations.

Mount Dofen, at an elevation of 1,151 meters, lies in the tectonically active Main Ethiopian Rift. This region is characterized by frequent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and ground deformation stemming from the ongoing tectonic plate movements and magma activity beneath the surface.

The M5.5 earthquake near Dofen volcano highlights the ongoing seismic threats in Ethiopia’s Afar region, emphasizing the vulnerability of local populations and infrastructure. With the likelihood of further seismic activity and potential volcanic eruptions, authorities must prioritize safety measures and disaster preparedness. The recent events illustrate the critical challenges posed by natural hazards in geologically active regions.

Original Source: watchers.news