BREAKING: 4.8 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Afar and Tigray Regions

Mekelle – A significant earthquake measuring 4.8 on the Richter scale has struck the Afar region and parts of Tigray, causing alarm among residents across northern Ethiopia.

According to data released by Volcano Discovery, the seismic event occurred yesterday evening, December 26, 2018 E.C. (January 4, 2026), at approximately 11:05 PM local time.

Areas Impacted

Reports indicate that strong tremors and a loud, rumbling sound were felt across a wide geographic area. The quake was most intensely felt in:

• Afar Region: Berahle and surrounding areas.

• Tigray Region: Mekelle, Maichew, Adi Gudem, Wukro, Hayqi Meshal, Edaga Hamus, Adigrat, Adwa, Axum, and Endasilasie-Shire.

Social media platforms have been flooded with updates from residents in Mekelle and Adigrat, who described the shaking as sudden and accompanied by a heavy, frightening noise. As of this morning, there are no confirmed reports of major structural damage or casualties, though local authorities are assessing the situation.

Analysis: Why is the Earth Shaking in Northern Ethiopia?

This latest 4.8 magnitude event is part of a broader pattern of seismic activity in the Horn of Africa. To understand why this is happening, we must look at the geological reality of our region.

1. The Afar Triple Junction

The Afar region sits at the center of the Afar Triple Junction, a geological “meeting point” where three tectonic plates—the Nubian, Somali, and Arabian plates—are slowly pulling away from each other.

• As these plates separate, the Earth’s crust thins and cracks (rifts).

• Magma from deep underground pushes upward to fill these cracks, often causing earthquakes and volcanic activity.

2. Recent Seismic Trends (2025-2026)

The last 12 months have seen a noticeable uptick in activity along the East African Rift:

• Late 2025 (Mekelle “Twin” Quakes): Just months ago, the region experienced “twin earthquakes” measuring up to 5.6 magnitude near Mekelle, which were felt as far away as Addis Ababa.

• January 2025 Swarm: Early last year, a significant “seismic swarm” (a series of many quakes) occurred in the southern Afar/Northern Oromia region near the Fentale and Dofan volcanoes, with some tremors reaching magnitude 5.8.

• November 2025: A 5.5 magnitude quake was recorded near Arerti, further confirming that the rift is currently in an active phase.

3. Historical Context: Not a New Phenomenon

While alarming, earthquakes are not new to this region. History provides us with sobering reminders of the rift’s power:

• 1989 Dobi Graben Swarm: A massive swarm of earthquakes struck the Afar region, with multiple events exceeding magnitude 6.0 within a 48-hour period.

• 1969 Serdo Earthquake: A magnitude 6.3 earthquake completely destroyed the town of Serdo in the Afar region, standing as one of the most destructive events in Ethiopian history.

• 1961 Karakore Crisis: A swarm of over 3,500 tremors occurred over several months, with the largest reaching magnitude 6.5, causing significant damage along the escarpment.

What Should You Do?

Seismologists advise that while we cannot predict earthquakes, we can prepare for them.

• Drop, Cover, and Hold On: If you feel shaking, drop to the ground, cover your head and neck (under a sturdy table if possible), and hold on until the shaking stops.

• Stay Outdoors: If you are outside, move away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires.

• Aftershocks: Be prepared for smaller “aftershocks” that may follow the main quake.

Kulu Media will continue to monitor this developing story and provide updates as they become available.