Ethiopia Evacuates Thousands as Volcanic Activity Escalates in Afar Region
Mount Dofen’s Awakening Sparks Urgent Emergency Response
Addis Ababa, January 19, 2025 – In a dramatic turn of events, Ethiopian authorities are evacuating thousands of residents in the northeastern Afar region following increased volcanic activity at Mount Dofen, a long-dormant volcano. The emergency response was triggered by steam eruptions and ground instability observed on Thursday, raising fears of a potential full-scale eruption that could endanger human lives, damage infrastructure, and disrupt livelihoods.
As a precautionary measure, Ethiopia’s Disaster Risk Management Agency, in coordination with regional authorities, is relocating residents from high-risk zones to designated safe areas. Scientists and government officials continue to monitor seismic activity, tracking any signs that Mount Dofen’s unrest could escalate into a major volcanic event.
The evacuations highlight the volcanic risks associated with the geologically active Afar region, where Ethiopia’s landscape is continuously shaped by powerful tectonic forces.
Volcanic Mudflows and Infrastructure Devastation
The effects of Mount Dofen’s reawakening are already being felt. Volcanic mudflows, a mix of ash, water, and rock, have caused significant damage to infrastructure, tearing apart major roads and highways. Large ground fissures and cracks have cut off transportation routes, leaving some remote communities stranded and complicating evacuation efforts.
Local authorities report that dozens of homes and public buildings have been severely damaged, while commercial activity in affected areas has ground to a halt. Residents have been forced to abandon their homes, seeking refuge in temporary shelters set up in safer regions of Afar.
Given the region’s harsh climate and remote geography, the damage to roads and supply chains presents a major challenge for emergency teams, who are working tirelessly to provide aid and assistance to displaced populations. The Ethiopian government, in collaboration with humanitarian organizations, is assessing the full extent of the damage and mobilizing additional resources for ongoing evacuations and disaster relief.
Is Mount Dofen on the Verge of a Major Eruption?
The million-dollar question remains: Will Mount Dofen erupt?
According to leading Ethiopian geophysicists, while the steam eruptions and mudflows indicate volcanic activity, they do not necessarily confirm an imminent full-scale eruption.
Atalay Ayele, a geophysics professor at Addis Ababa University’s Institute of Geophysics Space Science and Astronomy, explained that while these early warning signs are serious, they do not always precede a catastrophic event.
“Steam emissions and ground deformation suggest magma movement beneath the surface, but this does not guarantee a major eruption. The situation remains uncertain, and our teams are conducting real-time seismic monitoring to track further developments,” said Ayele.
Scientists are closely observing tectonic activity in the region, as Afar sits on one of the world's most geologically volatile fault lines. The coming days and weeks will be critical in determining whether Mount Dofen's current unrest subsides or escalates into a full-blown disaster.
Afar: Ethiopia’s Hotspot for Volcanic and Seismic Activity
The Afar region is one of the most geologically active places on Earth, sitting at the intersection of three major tectonic plates that are gradually pulling apart. This dynamic geological setting makes the region highly susceptible to earthquakes, ground fissures, and volcanic eruptions.
A History of Volcanic Eruptions in Afar
Ethiopia’s Afar region has witnessed several major volcanic events in recent history, including:
- Erta Ale Volcano – One of the world’s most active volcanoes, known for its persistent lava lake that has been continuously bubbling for decades.
- Dabbahu Eruption (2005) – A powerful eruption that reshaped parts of the Afar landscape, forcing evacuations and altering the geological structure of the area.
- Frequent Earthquakes – The region experiences regular seismic activity, with small- to medium-sized earthquakes occurring almost annually.
Aside from geological threats, Afar is one of the hottest and driest places on the planet, frequently experiencing droughts, famines, and flash floods. These extreme conditions, combined with the ever-present risk of natural disasters, have made the region a perennial hotspot for humanitarian crises.
Government’s Emergency Response: Coordinated Action to Protect Lives
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Ethiopian authorities have mobilized an extensive emergency response effort to safeguard affected communities. The government, working in tandem with regional officials, scientific experts, and humanitarian organizations, has implemented a four-pronged disaster response strategy:
1. Mass Evacuations and Safe Relocations
- Thousands of residents from high-risk areas are being transported to designated safe zones in Afar.
- Evacuation plans prioritize children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities.
- Authorities are ensuring orderly and efficient relocations to minimize panic and disruption.
2. Ongoing Volcanic Monitoring and Scientific Assessment
- Geologists and seismologists are conducting 24/7 monitoring of Mount Dofen’s activity.
- Advanced seismic equipment is being deployed to track ground movements and volcanic tremors.
- Regular updates are being provided to inform the public and guide evacuation decisions.
3. Infrastructure Repair and Emergency Accessibility
- Efforts are underway to restore damaged roads and critical infrastructure.
- Emergency teams are being deployed to reach cut-off communities affected by ground fissures.
- The government is assessing long-term reconstruction strategies for affected areas.
4. Humanitarian Assistance and Relief Operations
- Food, water, and medical supplies are being distributed to displaced individuals.
- Emergency shelters are being set up in safe zones to house evacuees.
- Mental health and trauma counseling are being provided to affected families.
Authorities continue to urge residents to remain vigilant, follow evacuation protocols, and cooperate with emergency teams as the situation remains highly unpredictable.
Conclusion: Afar on High Alert as Uncertainty Looms
While Mount Dofen’s steam eruptions and volcanic mudflows have not yet resulted in a full-blown eruption, the potential for further escalation remains a serious concern. Ethiopia’s disaster management teams and scientific community are working around the clock to monitor developments, evacuate residents, and provide emergency aid.
This latest volcanic event is a stark reminder of the Afar region’s vulnerability to natural disasters. Its history of volcanic eruptions, seismic activity, and extreme climate conditions makes preparedness and swift response essential in preventing widespread catastrophe.
With thousands already displaced and uncertainty surrounding Mount Dofen’s next move, Ethiopia remains on high alert. The government’s rapid response efforts will be crucial in minimizing casualties, restoring stability, and ensuring long-term resilience in this geologically fragile region.
As the situation unfolds, authorities and scientists will continue to closely monitor seismic activity, ensuring that any sign of escalation is met with immediate and decisive action. In the meantime, Afar’s communities—long accustomed to harsh environments and natural disasters—remain resilient, facing yet another challenge with strength and determination.