
A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck northern Ethiopia on Friday, coinciding with a volcanic eruption following months of heightened seismic activity, according to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) and local media reports.
The EMSC indicated that the earthquake, which occurred at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles), was centered about 55 kilometers (34 miles) northwest of the city of Asbe Teferi.
Aden Bela, a local official, informed the Ethiopian broadcaster EBC that the volcanic eruption took place at 5:30 AM local time (1430 GMT) near Segento in the northeastern Afar region. While the volcano has ceased emitting smoke, lava continues to flow from the crater. Bela noted that evacuations of residents and livestock were underway, although he did not provide specific numbers.
The US Geological Survey has recorded over 67 earthquakes in the region since late September, particularly affecting the Fantale area, which is part of the Great Rift Valley. Residents reported that more than 30 houses had collapsed due to the increasing frequency and intensity of the tremors.
“Houses are collapsing day by day,” one local resident told the Addis Standard, highlighting the growing concerns among affected communities. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported thus far. The situation remains closely monitored as authorities assess the impact of the earthquake and volcanic activity.