Strong and Shallow M6.2 Earthquake Strikes Off Costa Rica’s Coast
A magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck off the coast of Costa Rica on October 12, 2024, at a depth of 18 km. Approximately 69,000 people felt moderate shaking, while around 1.86 million experienced lighter tremors. There is no tsunami threat, and a Green alert was issued indicating a low likelihood of casualties. Many structures in the region remain vulnerable to such seismic activities.
On October 12, 2024, a potent earthquake of magnitude 6.2 was recorded by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) off the Pacific coast of Costa Rica at 17:43 local time (11:43 UTC). This seismic event occurred at a depth of 18 km (11.2 miles) and was corroborated by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC) which reported identical measurements. The epicenter of the earthquake was determined to be 41.4 km (25.7 miles) northwest of Tamarindo, 67 km (41.6 miles) west-northwest of Santa Cruz, and 75.9 km (47.1 miles) west of Liberia, all within the Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica. Approximately 69,000 residents reportedly experienced moderate shaking, while an estimated 1,856,000 felt lighter tremors. Fortunately, the USGS has assessed that there is no tsunami threat posed by this earthquake. They have issued a Green alert indicating a low likelihood of fatalities and property damage resulting from the event. However, it is important to note that many structures in the region are vulnerable, primarily those constructed from mud walls and adobe blocks, though some buildings can withstand seismic activity. Historical data highlights that earthquakes in Costa Rica’s vicinity have previously triggered secondary hazards such as landslides and liquefaction, contributing to significant losses in some instances.
Costa Rica is situated along thePacific Ring of Fire, where tectonic activity is prevalent. Earthquakes are common in this seismically active region due to the interaction of the Cocos and Caribbean tectonic plates. The construction standards vary widely, and many older buildings were not designed to withstand severe seismic events, which increases the risk of damage and casualties during earthquakes. Awareness of earthquake preparedness and response is critical in reducing potential impacts on the population, especially in coastal areas that are particularly prone to seismic events.
In summary, the recent M6.2 earthquake off the coast of Costa Rica serves as a reminder of the region’s seismic vulnerabilities. Although the immediate threat of tsunami or significant damage appears low according to the USGS, the structural integrity of many buildings poses a notable concern. Continuous monitoring, preparedness education, and improved building practices are essential in mitigating the risks associated with such natural disasters in the future.
Original Source: watchers.news
