6.0 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Ethiopia, Prompting Evacuations

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck near Fentale volcano in Ethiopia on February 14, 2025, at a shallow depth of 10 kilometers, affecting the populous Oromiya region. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that around 45,000 people experienced very strong tremors, with an estimated 80,000 individuals impacted overall. Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of significant structural damage or casualties, though the region has been on high alert due to ongoing seismic activity and potential volcanic eruptions. The USGS has issued a Green alert regarding the potential for fatalities and economic repercussions, indicating a low probability of serious harm. However, the local population primarily resides in buildings vulnerable to seismic events, raising concerns about future risks. The earthquake is part of a seismo-volcanic crisis in the area, linked to magma movement in the Fentale volcanic complex, and has prompted government evacuations in high-risk zones.