On Friday, September 27, 2024, at 3:20 p.m. local time (Africa/Addis Ababa GMT +3), a moderate earthquake of magnitude 4.5 struck 3.7 kilometers northeast of Metehara, Oromiya, Ethiopia, near Harari. The earthquake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers, and though the tremors were moderate in strength, they were widely felt in surrounding towns and regions.
The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) was the first to report the quake, initially estimating the magnitude at 4.7. This was later revised several times, with the final magnitude set at 4.5. The epicenter was located at 8.93°N latitude and 39.94°E longitude, and minor adjustments to its position were made throughout the day.
The earthquake’s intensity was categorized as V on the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, indicating moderate shaking close to the epicenter. One of the closest towns, Metehara, which lies about 3.7 kilometers from the epicenter, reported the most noticeable effects. The tremors extended as far as the capital, Addis Ababa, located 131 kilometers away, where residents felt light to very weak shaking.
Seismogram (vertical component) around time of quake. Thin dotted red line indicates time of quake. Seismic waves arrive some time later, depending on distance. Bandpass filter applied: 0.2-5.0 Hz. Source: IRIS Buffer of Uniform Data (BUD) webtool
Though no significant damage or injuries have been reported, the quake was felt across a wide area. In the town of Metehara, with a population of approximately 23,400, moderate shaking was experienced. Nearby towns, including Āwash and Nazrēt (Adama), with populations of 11,400 and over 214,000, respectively, felt light to weak shaking. Residents in smaller towns such as Sīrē, Wenjī, and Gelemso also reported minor tremors.
Given the depth and magnitude, the seismic event likely did not cause substantial structural damage but served as a reminder of the tectonic activity in the region. The earthquake occurred near the Fantale volcano, which lies just 5 kilometers from the epicenter, but no volcanic activity was reported in connection with the quake.
The Great Rift Valley, where the quake occurred, is a seismically active region as the African plate continues to split into two smaller plates. While larger quakes are relatively rare, smaller seismic events like this are not unusual. Ethiopia is home to several active faults, and the region surrounding the epicenter frequently experiences moderate tremors.
As of the latest reports, only one eyewitness account from Metehara has been submitted, describing weak shaking and minor horizontal movements. Local authorities and emergency services have not reported any significant disruptions. However, officials are closely monitoring the situation, particularly due to the proximity of the volcano.
The estimated seismic energy released by the earthquake was around 3.5 x 10^11 joules, roughly equivalent to 84.8 tons of TNT. Fortunately, the energy dissipated across a wide area, minimizing potential damage.
Though this earthquake did not result in a major disaster, it serves as a reminder for preparedness in the event of stronger seismic events. Seismologists will continue to analyze data from the region to monitor any potential aftershocks or additional tremors.
In Addis Ababa, where residents experienced weak shaking, life has largely returned to normal. Nevertheless, geologists urge the public to remain aware of the possibility of further activity in this geologically active area.
While no reports of casualties or major damage have emerged so far, ongoing updates will ensure that residents in affected areas remain informed.
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