Scientists predict Africa’s Afar region could become Earth’s next ocean basin

Scientists are warning that northeastern Africa may soon split apart. The Afar region is located at a tectonic triple junction, where rifting and volcanic activity point towards a potential future ocean basin. This region sits between the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, and the East African Rift, making it a crucial geological hotspot where tectonic plates are gradually moving apart. The unique triple junction provides an opportunity to observe the process of continental break-up over time.