A M5.5 earthquake struck the Afar region of Ethiopia on March 16, 2025, with a depth of 10 km. The quake’s epicenter was close to significant population centers, and over 6,000 felt severe shaking. The USGS issued a Green alert indicating low casualty probability, despite structural vulnerabilities in the area. This quake is part of an ongoing crisis with possible volcanic activity at Dofen, necessitating heightened awareness.
On March 16, 2025, a significant earthquake measuring M5.5 struck the Afar region of Ethiopia at 18:53 UTC. The quake had a shallow depth of 10 km (6.2 miles) and was confirmed by both the US Geological Survey (USGS) and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). The epicenter was approximately 46 km south of Awash and 55.5 km east of the Dofen volcano.
An estimated 6,000 people experienced severe shaking, while about 26,000 felt very strong tremors, 14,000 strong, and 30,000 moderate. In response to the earthquake, the USGS issued a Green alert indicating low chances of fatalities and economic losses, although structures in the area remain vulnerable to seismic activity.
Construction types in the region primarily include informal materials and adobe, both of which are susceptible to earthquake damage. Recent seismic events have increased risks of secondary hazards like landslides, which could potentially worsen impacts.
Following the earthquake, a moderate aftershock occurred at M4.3, located 47 km SSE of Abomsa. This recent seismic event is part of an ongoing seismo-volcanic crisis affecting the region since December 2024, characterized by numerous earthquakes, ground fissures, and the emergence of a volcanic vent near Dofen.
Mass evacuations had previously been initiated due to an M5.7 earthquake that occurred on January 4, 2025, leading to the displacement of over 60,000 residents. Additionally, a new volcanic vent formed on January 3, raising concerns over potential eruptions—the first in the recorded history of Mount Dofen.
The Ethiopian Geological Institute has noted challenges in evacuation efforts due to volcanic mudflows resulting from this activity. Alarmingly, concerns over the Kesem/Sabure Dam have also surfaced, as the structure was designed for earthquakes up to M5.6. Current seismic activity poses a risk of catastrophic flooding if the dam were to fail, potentially impacting hundreds of thousands.
Mount Dofen, which rises to 1,151 m (3,776 feet) a.s.l., is situated within the Main Ethiopian Rift, part of the East African Rift System (EARS), a highly active tectonic area. This region is known for its frequent earthquakes and volcanic activity due to the ongoing divergence of tectonic plates and magma movements beneath the earth’s surface.
The M5.5 earthquake near Dofen volcano marks a critical event in Ethiopia’s ongoing geological challenges. While the USGS has reported a low likelihood of casualties, the region’s vulnerability and the presence of volcanic activity pose serious risks. The established evacuation protocols, concerns regarding structural resilience of the dam, and potential volcanic eruptions highlight the urgent need for continuous monitoring and preparedness in the Afar region.
Original Source: watchers.news
