Martin Endjala
On Wednesday, the town of Otavi woke up to the news of seismic heat activity.
Johannes Johannes, who shared videos with the Windhoek Observer on Wednesday, observed the activities on his property.
“The area is in Otavi, where seismic heat seemingly erupts from underground. The ground is very soft; anyone or anything stepping above it is engulfed. We need assistance,” he said.
Some community members even poked the ground with sticks, while others sprayed water on the bubbling ash.
It is not clear what has caused the heat at this stage.
The mines and energy spokesperson Eshioshange Hasheela confirmed that a team has been dispatched to the site to investigate.
“At this stage, we cannot determine the cause, but a team has been sent to investigate and establish what it is, and only then will we update the nation,” she said.
Citizens took to social media to share their thoughts on the cause of the seismic heat.
“Seismic heat refers to the heat generated by seismic activity, primarily from the friction between tectonic plates during an earthquake. When an earthquake occurs, the rapid movement of the plates can generate significant amounts of heat at the fault lines. However, this heat is generally localised deep underground and dissipates quickly, so it doesn’t directly impact surface temperatures or cause immediate harm to humans. The real danger to humans comes from the seismic activity itself, such as ground shaking, landslides, and tsunamis, rather than from the heat. Earthquakes can cause building collapses, infrastructure damage, and other hazards that pose risks to human life and property,” said Helen Tenya Hangula-Shinedima.
“It’s a volcanic area… stay away from the area. It must be cordoned off for safety reasons. Other than that, there is nothing anyone can do. It is a good study for the relevant departments in UNAM, NUST, IUM, etc.,” said Matheus H Namidi.
Wodibo Haulofu, the chief executive officer of Otavi town, confirmed that charcoal debris was the cause of the underground fire.
“The fire has ignited in an area where a charcoal-producing plant used to operate in the past,” he said.
Haulofu said the fire has been contained and the council will continue to monitor the site to ensure its safety.
He requested the community to remain vigilant and approach the area with caution until it is declared a safe zone.
