Isiolo County, Kenya| A wave of unease has gripped residents of Isiolo County following the occurrence of two earth tremors in as many days.
The first incident was recorded in Kinna on May 3, 2025, and a second, similar tremor was felt in Garbatulla on May 4.
The events have left locals concerned about potential seismic instability in a region historically considered geologically stable.
Although no casualties or damage have been reported, the tremors have triggered widespread anxiety, especially as neither local leaders nor national authorities have issued any official communication to address the public’s fears or provide guidance on safety precautions.
Residents in both Kinna and Garbatulla expressed shock, noting that seismic activity in the area is virtually unheard of.
“This is the first time many of us have experienced anything like this,” said one Garbatulla resident, adding that the uncertainty about the cause and potential recurrence has caused considerable distress.
As of now, the Kenya Meteorological Department and other relevant government agencies have not released technical assessments of the tremors, including their magnitudes on the Richter scale or their epicenters.
This lack of information has only fueled speculation and concern among the affected communities.
Seismologists and geologists are urging authorities to take the incidents seriously, citing a pattern of increased seismic activity across the broader region.
Ethiopia, Kenya’s northern neighbor, has in recent months experienced multiple earthquakes and tremors, prompting fears that tectonic shifts in the East African Rift System may be affecting neighboring regions.
“While Sub-Saharan Africa, and particularly Kenya, is not typically classified as seismically active, the East African Rift Valley is a notable exception. Increased activity in Ethiopia could suggest wider geotectonic movements,” explained a regional geologist who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue.
The silence from elected leaders and government institutions has drawn criticism, with residents demanding reassurance and preparedness measures in case of more severe seismic events in the future.
Many feel that timely advisories and public awareness campaigns could alleviate panic and potentially save lives if the situation worsens.
Calls are growing for the national government to dispatch geological experts to assess the tremors and provide a comprehensive risk evaluation.
Additionally, citizens and experts alike are calling on local leaders to break their silence and demonstrate proactive leadership in ensuring the safety and well-being of their constituents.
Until then, uncertainty looms over Isiolo, as the tremors have left behind not just shaking ground, but shaken confidence in the readiness of authorities to respond to potentially life-threatening natural events.
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