Ethiopia: Situation Update | ReliefWeb Response

Update on the Seismic Situation in Afar and Oromia Region (as of 31 January 2025)

According to local authorities in Afar and Oromia, 90,000 people are at risk, and approximately 85,000 people are being evacuated – 30,000 in Oromia and 55,000 in Afar.
Cracks in road in Durfli Kebele, Dulecha Woreda, showing the impact of recent seismic tremors.. © UNOCHA/Alex O’Mahony

In Afar, experts from Semera University and Addis Ababa University have determined that the original evacuation sites need to be moved to safer areas. Consequently, these sites will be decommissioned, and evacuees will be moved to a newly designated site. Partners are working to move supplies and facilities to minimize disruptions to the humanitarian response.
UN and NGO partners are supporting the government-led response by providing food, safe water, health and nutrition services, emergency shelter, and essential items. Efforts are also underway to resume education for affected children.
Critical response gaps remain, particularly in Oromia, where partner presence is limited and response rates are significantly lower. According to the rapid assessments conducted by humanitarian partners in both regions, urgent needs include access to safe water and sanitation services, emergency shelter, essential non-food items (such as blankets and cooking materials), and health services.