What are physical features of Eritrea?

Eritrea's topography is highly diverse. The country is made up of three major physical features: the highlands, the central lowlands, and the eastern Coastal plains.

Highlands

Eritrea's highlands are located in the western and central parts of the country and cover about two-thirds of the total land area. The average elevation of the highlands ranges between 1,800 and 3,000 meters above sea level. The highest point in Eritrea, Mount Soira at 3,018 meters, is part of the Eritrean Highlands.

Central Lowlands

The central lowlands separate the highlands in the west from the coastal plains in the east. It is a semi-arid region covering an area of about 20% of Eritrea's total land area. The central lowlands are characterized by gently rolling plains and isolated hills, with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,000 meters above sea level.

Eastern Coastal Plains

Eritrea's eastern coastal plains extend along the Red Sea and cover about 15% of the country's total land area. The coastal plains are narrow in the north and widen in the south, where they are known as the Danakil Depression. The elevation of the eastern coastal plains generally ranges from 0 to 100 meters above sea level.

Rivers and Lakes

Eritrea has several rivers and streams that flow through the highlands and lowlands, but most are ephemeral, meaning they only flow during the rainy season. The major rivers include the Gash River and the Barka River. There are also several lakes in Eritrea, the most notable being Lake Kulul, a saline lake located in the Danakil Depression.

Deserts

Eritrea also has several deserts, including the Danakil Desert in the northeast, the Tserona Desert in the south, and the Nefasit Desert in the west. The deserts are characterized by extreme temperatures, sparse vegetation, and sandy or rocky terrain.

Eritrea's diverse physical features contribute to its complex climate, ecosystems, and landscapes, making it a country of great natural beauty and environmental significance.

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