Ethiopia NOW! Volcano Threat: Earthquakes and Magma Intrusion Raise Alarm

On January 4, 2025, residents of the Afar region in Ethiopia witnessed events that affected thousands of people.

After a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of five-point-seven struck near Mount Dofen at 3:52 AM local time, volcanic activity in the area intensified. Later that day, a second earthquake with a magnitude of four-point-seven was recorded approximately six miles east of Awash, within the same region. In Dulessa and Awash-Fentale, at least thirty houses were destroyed, while other buildings sustained damage, and key infrastructure, such as water pumps, was rendered inoperative.

Ethiopian authorities ordered a large-scale evacuation, forcing approximately eighty thousand people to leave their homes and relocate to safer areas. In some places, massive landslides occurred, and volcanic mudflows severely hampered evacuation efforts.

It is important to note that extensive seismic and volcanic activity has been observed in the region since December 22, 2024. During this time, dozens of earthquakes were recorded, large fissures formed around Mount Dofen, and a new crater appeared near Dulessa in the Afar region, emitting gas, rocks, and mud.

Frequent earthquakes destabilized the Afar region, causing many houses to collapse. Cracks in the ground and asphalt were reported by local residents to be widening. Water emerging from the fractured earth began flooding residential areas. The earthquakes also disrupted operations at a sugarcane processing plant and damaged the main road.

There are growing concerns about an imminent eruption, which could become the first known eruption of this volcano in recorded history. Studies have confirmed that magma intrusion beneath the surface is the cause of the volcano’s activity, potentially leading to phreatic or hydrothermal explosions.

The unfolding events are a stark reminder of escalating climatic and geological threats. It is crucial to acknowledge that these issues will not resolve themselves. Comprehensive international efforts are needed, including the establishment of a global scientific center that brings together researchers from around the world to develop solutions and prevent similar tragedies.

The "Global Crisis. The Responsibility" forum provides thorough information on how we can address these challenges. The time to act is now, and our response will determine the future of our planet and the safety of billions of people.