5.5-Magnitude Quake Sparks Volcanic Eruption in Ethiopia

A 5.5-magnitude earthquake struck northern Ethiopia on Friday, coinciding with a volcanic eruption after months of heightened seismic activity, according to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) and local reports.

The quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers (6 miles), approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) northwest of Asbe Teferi. No injuries have been reported so far.

Local media revealed that a nearby volcano erupted following a prolonged period of tremors. Aden Bela, a regional official, told Ethiopian broadcaster EBC that the eruption occurred at 5:30 am near Segento in the northeastern Afar region.

While the crater has stopped emitting smoke, lava flows persist, prompting evacuations of residents and livestock. However, specific evacuation numbers were not disclosed.

The US Geological Survey has tracked over 67 earthquakes in the area since late September, with most concentrated in the Fantale region of the Great Rift Valley, the Addis Standard reported.

Residents have described increasing damage, with more than 30 houses collapsing due to the intensifying tremors. “Homes are falling apart day by day,” one local shared.