New Ocean Forming as Africa Splits in Two

A new ocean may be forming, giving Uganda and Zambia their own coastline. Before you start booking a vacation, realize that this process may take millions of years to complete.

Satellite images show that a divide is occurring in the East Africa Rift System. The Earth is dividing in Kenya, where there is a chasm that is at least 66 feet wide and 55 feet deep.

Where is the East Africa Rift System?

The East Africa Rift System stretches from Afar Triple Junction in Africa's northeastern part through eastern Africa and ends in Mozambique in the south.

This area has many deep valleys, highlands, and volcanic features created by tectonic activity millions of years ago.