Since the start of 2025, Ethiopia‘s Afar and Oromia regions have been rocked by a series of earthquakes, the strongest measuring 5.7 in magnitude on January 4. The quake’s epicenter, 142 km east of Addis Ababa, followed a 5.5-magnitude tremor the previous day. Over the weekend of January 11, two more significant quakes were reported, heightening concerns of further seismic and volcanic activity.
The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Council has responded by relocating approximately 60,000 residents to temporary shelters to safeguard lives. The tremors have also sparked fears of potential eruptions at the Fentale and Dofen volcanoes, both located near the quake zones.
Unusual Seismic Activity Linked to Magma Movement
The current spate of earthquakes is attributed to magmatic activity beneath the Fentale and Dofen volcanoes. Magma movement within the Earth’s crust exerts pressure on surrounding rocks, causing them to fracture and generate seismic waves.
Ethiopia, situated within the East African Rift System, is geologically active with around 50 active volcanoes. Most are in the Ethiopian Rift, where past eruptions have been documented over centuries. While earthquakes and volcanic activity often coexist, direct triggering of volcanic eruptions by earthquakes remains rare in Ethiopia.
Volcano researcher Amdemichael Tadesse explained that seismic activity in volcanic regions often occurs in swarms, driven by magma intrusions. “What we are observing in the Fentale-Dofen region is sustained seismicity caused by magma movement,” he said.
Preparing for Potential Volcanic Eruptions
Ethiopia’s authorities are monitoring the situation using satellite imagery and seismic data to track ground deformation and changes in seismic patterns. These tools are critical for early detection and mitigation of risks.
Experts emphasize the importance of comprehensive planning to reduce the impact of natural disasters:
- Monitoring and Early Warning Systems: Seismic and satellite technologies provide critical data on impending eruptions, enabling authorities to issue timely alerts.
- Risk Mapping: Detailed maps can guide urban development and evacuation planning, ensuring critical infrastructure is located away from high-risk zones.
- Community Preparedness: Regular drills and education campaigns can empower communities to respond effectively. Lessons can be drawn from countries like Japan, where a robust disaster preparedness culture has minimized the impact of natural hazards.
- Efficient Communication: Establishing reliable communication channels, including SMS alerts and public announcements, ensures swift dissemination of critical information to at-risk populations.
- Emergency Supplies and Teams: Governments and aid organizations must maintain reserves of food, water, and medical supplies while deploying specialized response teams to manage crises.
While volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are natural phenomena beyond human control, their impacts can be mitigated through preparedness, infrastructure development, and community engagement.