Magnitude 5.6 Earthquake Strikes Near Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia

October 11, 2025 – Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia

A moderate but shallow earthquake measuring magnitude 5.6 struck near Mekelle, the capital city of Ethiopia’s Tigray region, on Saturday, October 11, 2025, sending tremors across the area and causing concern among residents.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at a depth of about 10 kilometers, with its epicenter located approximately 45 kilometers east-northeast of Mekelle. The quake struck at 5:04 p.m. local time (14:04 UTC) and was felt strongly in Mekelle and neighboring districts.

Initial reports from residents described strong and prolonged shaking, forcing many people to rush outdoors for safety. So far, no casualties or major structural damage have been officially confirmed, though local authorities and emergency teams have begun rapid assessments to inspect buildings, infrastructure, and essential services.

Series of Tremors Reported

Seismic monitoring agencies recorded multiple smaller tremors around the same region throughout the day. Earlier readings, including a magnitude 5.3 event, suggest a series of related seismic activities northeast of Mekelle. These events indicate a temporary buildup and release of tectonic stress within the region.

Geologic Context

The Tigray region lies within the northern section of the East African Rift System, one of the world’s most active tectonic zones. This rift, which stretches from the Red Sea through Ethiopia and into East Africa, is gradually pulling the African continent apart.

Over the past decade, more than 60 earthquakes of magnitude 4.0 or higher have occurred within 300 kilometers of Mekelle, reflecting the area’s ongoing geologic instability.

Authorities Urge Caution

In response to Saturday’s quake, local officials and the Ethiopian National Disaster Risk Management Commission (NDRMC) have issued public safety alerts, advising residents to remain vigilant and prepare for possible aftershocks. Aftershocks following an event of this magnitude can still reach magnitudes of 4.0 or greater, potentially causing further minor damage.

Emergency teams are urging people to:

Avoid entering damaged or unstable buildings Stay informed through official government and seismological updates Keep communication lines open and assist vulnerable community members

A Reminder of Regional Vulnerability

While no large-scale destruction has been reported, the earthquake serves as a reminder of Ethiopia’s seismic exposure, particularly in the rift-affected northern and central regions. Experts emphasize the importance of enforcing earthquake-resistant building codes, improving emergency response capacity, and enhancing public awareness about disaster preparedness.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, and updates will follow as more information becomes available from on-site assessments and scientific analyses.