Situation Update

Update on the Seismic Situation in Afar and Oromia Region (as of 17 January 2025)

Highlights

  • Seismic activity continues in the Afar and Oromia regions, with 18 earthquakes (magnitudes 4.3 to 5.2) recorded in the past week, linked to the Fentale volcanic complex.
  • NGO ASDEPO transports animal feed from Semera
    NGO ASDEPO transports animal feed from Semera to be distributed to evacuees in Awash Fentale district, Afar Region. ©ASDEPO

    The Government of Ethiopia is evacuating over 60,000 people from high-risk areas to safer locations. These evacuations are occurring in areas affected by ongoing tremors, hilly regions experiencing rockfalls, near sites emitting ash since 2 January, and around a major dam.

  • Some residents, especially pastoralists, are hesitant to leave due to concerns about livestock and property.
  • UN and NGO partners are supporting the government-led response through providing technical expertise and delivering humanitarian assistance in the area, but significant gaps remain. Government-led zonal Incident Command Posts (ICPs) have been set up in Awash (Afar Region) and Metehara (Oromia Region), with OCHA co-chairing to streamline coordination.
  • A multi-sector initial rapid assessment (MIRA) has been completed, and its findings will guide ongoing relief efforts.

Read the full update

Ethiopia: HRP Implementation in 2024, Cumulative response in 2024 (up to 30 November)

HRP Implementation in 2024, Cumulative response in 2024 (up to 30 November), Release date: 23 December 2024

National Access Map (as of 30 November 2024)

Ethiopia Access Map - Nov 2024

Key Figures and Funding

Contacts

OCHA Ethiopia
Strategic Communications Unit

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