Authorities in northeastern Ethiopia have initiated evacuations in response to alarming volcanic activity at Mount Dofen, a long-dormant volcano. Steam emissions observed since Thursday have raised concerns about a possible eruption, prompting precautionary measures to protect residents.
The Afar Region Disaster Risk Management agency confirmed that volcanic mudflows from Mount Dofen have caused significant damage, including severe cracks in major roads and extensive destruction to dozens of properties.
Residents in affected areas are being relocated to safer zones within the region as officials monitor the situation. The evacuations are described as preventive, aimed at reducing risks to civilians in the event of an eruption.