East Africa Rift Could Split the Continent, Forming a New Ocean, Study Finds
Scientists say the Turkana Rift in East Africa is nearing a final breakup that could eventually separate the eastern part of Africa from the rest of the continent and create a new ocean. Using seismic data, researchers show the region is further along in continental rifting than previously thought, with early oceanic crust forming near Afar; the process began millions of years ago and, if it continues, could occur over a few million years, reshaping Africa’s geography and tying into the region’s rich fossil record.
