Researchers now say Africa is splitting apart faster than expected, a phenomena that will eventually create a new ocean.
The Birth Of An African Ocean Before Our Eyes
Across the Ethiopian desert, a massive crack in the Earth’s crust hints at a breathtaking transformation underway. Scientists have discovered that the African continent is splitting faster than ever imagined.
Africa’s Journey Toward A New Ocean
The East African Rift or EAR is a monumental geological feature where the African continent is gradually splitting into two separate landmasses. This active continental rift zone extends over thousands of kilometers from the Afar Triple Junction in the northeast down through Eastern Africa.
Caused By Unseen Forces
Tectonic forces are causing the African Plate to diverge into the Somali Plate and the Nubian Plate. As these plates continue to separate, it's anticipated that a new ocean will eventually form to fill the gap and create significant alterations in Africa's geography.
Micheletb, Prof. Peter Bird's map, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
A Wonder Unfolding
It’s like seeing how our continents were formed in antiquity. The EAR System comprises two main branches: The Eastern Rift Valley/Gregory Rift and the Western Rift Valley/Albertine Rift. It shows a series of rift basins characterized by volcanic activity and the formation of deep lakes.
SeaWiFS Project, NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center, and ORBIMAGE, Wikimedia Commons
Provides A Deeper Understanding
Fossils show that the Rift Valley is home to some of the most well-preserved hominid remains. Its unique nature provides a rare glimpse into the early stages of continental breakup and offers invaluable insights into the evolution of mankind.
Creationlaw (talk) (Uploads), CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
