Ethiopia plans massive evacuation after earthquake strikes

The Ethiopian government announced Saturday its plan to evacuate over 80,000 residents from areas hit by recurring earthquakes this week.

“The Ministry of Government Communication Services identified 12 kebeles as priority zones for evacuation, though details on the timeline remain unclear”. Emergency workers have already been deployed to these areas near the earthquake epicenter.

The country has experienced increasing seismic activity, with a 5.8 magnitude quake recorded this week, affecting regions near Afar, Amhara, and Oromo. No major casualties were reported, but an elementary and a high school were damaged. Social media footage showed fissures along the Addis Ababa-Metehara road and signs of volcanic activity near Fentale Mountain.

Tremors have been felt as far as Addis Ababa and Dessie, prompting residents to sleep outdoors for safety. The government is closely monitoring the situation, urging citizens to heed safety warnings. Meanwhile, “Volcano Discovery” reported a 4.3 magnitude quake 51 km NNW of Āwash.