Addis Ababa, Jan 6 (NationPress) The Ethiopian authorities have declared that they are organizing evacuations due to a series of relentless and damaging earthquakes affecting the eastern region of the nation.

Recent seismic activities have impacted areas around Awash Fentale, Metahara, and Abomsa towns, with magnitudes often surpassing five, according to the US Geological Survey (USGS).

The most powerful tremor, recorded at a magnitude of 5.8, occurred early on Saturday, approximately 56 km south-southeast of Abomsa. The epicenter was located at a depth of 10 km, at 9.505 degrees north latitude and 40.169 degrees east longitude, as reported by Xinhua.

Data from the USGS suggests that at least seven earthquakes have struck eastern Ethiopia in the last two days, indicating a notable escalation in intensity compared to the moderate tremors felt in previous weeks.

In a statement released on Saturday evening, the Ethiopian National Disaster Risk Management Commission emphasized the critical need for action in the affected regions. Approximately 15,000 individuals across six areas in the Awash Fentale district, Afar region, are at risk, with 7,000 already relocated.

In the Dulecha district, about 20,000 people have been affected, and 6,223 have been moved to safer locations.

The tremors were felt as far away as Addis Ababa, approximately 190 km west of Abomsa. The government has mobilized emergency teams, including experts from various sectors, to evaluate damages across 12 areas in the Afar, Oromia, and Amhara regions.

The Ethiopian Government Communication Service has noted an increase in both the intensity and frequency of recent earthquakes, stating that evacuations are being organized with a focus on relocating the most vulnerable populations in affected areas.

Compounding the situation, a volcanic eruption was reported on Friday at Mount Dofan in the Dulecha district of Afar. Local officials are taking measures to safeguard residents, as reported by the state-aligned Fana Broadcasting Corporate.

Videos circulating online depict cracked roads and expanding fissures, highlighting the consequences of the seismic events. Experts link these quakes to ongoing tectonic activity within the region's basaltic rock formations, cautioning that the frequency of such incidents may continue.

While major urban areas have largely avoided substantial damage, officials are urging citizens to adhere to safety protocols. Authorities are carefully monitoring the repercussions on social services, infrastructure, and the economy, promising regular updates through official channels.