A magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck northern Ethiopia on Friday, followed by a volcanic eruption in the region, according to the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) and local media reports.
The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of approximately 10 kilometers, was centered about 55 kilometers northwest of the city of Asbe Teferi.
While no injuries have been reported thus far, the seismic activity has been preceded by months of increased tremors in the area.
Local officials confirmed a volcanic eruption near Segento in the northeast Afar region, occurring shortly after the earthquake.
While the crater has ceased releasing smoke, lava continues to flow from the volcano.
Preemptive evacuations of people and livestock have been initiated, although the exact number of displaced individuals remains unknown.
The US Geological Survey has recorded over 67 earthquakes in the region since late September, particularly within the Fantale region situated within the Great Rift Valley.
