Why is it in the news?

• Geologists predict the potential emergence of a new ocean at the Afar Triangle as it will be inundated by the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden when a new ocean basin forms.
• This geological process could lead to the birth of a distinct continent in East Africa, fundamentally altering the landscape and geographical features of the region.

More about the news

• The Afar Triangle, also known as the Afar Depression, is located in the Horn of Africa and represents the northernmost portion of the Great Rift Valley.
• It is one of the most geologically active regions on Earth, where the Nubian, Somali, and Arabian Plates converge, leading to significant tectonic activity and volcanic eruptions.
• The Afar Triangle encompasses sections of Eritrea, Djibouti, and Ethiopia, and its unique geological characteristics make it a significant area for scientific research and study.
• The Awash River is the main river that flows through the Afar Triangle, playing a crucial role in shaping the landscape and providing water resources to the region.