Magnitude 5.5 Earthquake Hits Ethiopia

Ethiopia experienced a moderate earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter Scale early Saturday, striking east of Addis Ababa at a shallow depth of 10 km. This quake follows a series of over 30 smaller tremors and another 5.5 magnitude earthquake in the area earlier in the week, raising concerns about potential major seismic activity. The region has been under scrutiny as a nearby volcano shows signs of imminent eruption, prompting local authorities to evacuate residents from affected areas. Despite the geological activity, officials have stated it is too early to declare an eruption but are taking precautionary measures. The epicenter of the recent earthquakes is located approximately 142 km from Addis Ababa, where the activity has heightened anxiety regarding possible disasters in the Awash Fentale region.