Ethiopia: Situation Update | ReliefWeb Response

Update on the Seismic Situation in Afar and Oromia Region (as of 06 January 2025)

Highlights

Seismic activity has increased in frequency and magnitude across Afar and Oromia, particularly in Awash and Dulecha districts. Over 20 earthquakes, ranging from 4.2 to 5.8 in magnitude, have been recorded between 4 and 6 January.

Food assistance being distributed by EDRMC on 5 January, close to Awash, Afar region.
The government is relocating approximately 80,000 residents from high-risk areas to safer locations. Seven settlement sites have been identified in the Afar region and five in the Oromia region. Activities have already begun to provide shelter and support to the displaced population.
Registration of internally displaced persons (IDPs) is underway at the sites to ensure accurate data for effective aid distribution. The government has already confirmed the relocation of 13,730 households in the Afar region, and approximately 1,400 in the Oromia region.
Scientific assessments continue, but predictions remain uncertain. The cumulative impact of these earthquakes highlights the urgent need to assess and address infrastructure vulnerability.
UN and NGO teams are supporting the government-led response and began arriving in the affected areas on January 4. They are working to assess needs and prioritize response efforts.