A Strong and Shallow M6.2 Earthquake Strikes Off the Coast of Costa Rica

A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck off Costa Rica’s coast on October 12, 2024, at a shallow depth of 18 km. Approximately 69,000 people felt moderate shaking, with about 1.86 million experiencing light tremors. No tsunami threat has been issued, and the likelihood of severe damage or casualties is considered low, although the region’s structural vulnerabilities remain significant.

On October 12, 2024, a significant seismic event measuring 6.2 on the Moment Magnitude Scale struck the coastal region of Costa Rica at 17:43 local time (11:43 UTC). The earthquake, characterized by a shallow depth of 18 kilometers (11.2 miles), was reported by both the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). The quake’s epicenter was determined to be 41.4 kilometers (25.7 miles) northwest of Tamarindo, 67 kilometers (41.6 miles) west-northwest of Santa Cruz, and 75.9 kilometers (47.1 miles) west of Liberia, in Guanacaste Province. It is estimated that approximately 69,000 individuals experienced moderate shaking, while about 1,856,000 felt light tremors. Importantly, the USGS indicated that there was no tsunami threat associated with this earthquake. The agency issued a Green alert concerning the potential for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses, although the likelihood of significant casualties and damage is deemed low. Despite the low-risk predictions, structural vulnerability remains a concern in the affected region, as the local population primarily inhabits buildings susceptible to seismic activity, particularly those constructed from mud and adobe. Past earthquakes in this area have led to secondary hazards such as landslides and ground liquefaction, which may have aggravated losses in the aftermath of seismic events.

This article discusses a noteworthy seismic event that impacted the coastal zone of Costa Rica, a region characterized by its geological activity due to the tectonic movements of the Cocos Plate beneath the Caribbean Plate. Earthquakes of similar magnitude can cause significant concern depending on the population density and infrastructural resilience. The information provided by the USGS and EMSC is critical in assessing the impact of such natural phenomena on communities living in vulnerable structures. Shallow earthquakes, like the one discussed, often lead to felt shaking over large areas, emphasizing the importance of early warning systems and public preparedness. Observing the response to past seismic activities in the area underlines the need for improved construction practices to mitigate hazards. Additionally, understanding the local seismic history aids in comprehending the current event’s potential ramifications for the population and infrastructure.

In conclusion, the recent M6.2 earthquake off the coast of Costa Rica underscores the region’s susceptibility to seismic activity. While the immediate impact appears manageable, with low likelihoods of severe casualties and economic loss, the vulnerability of local structures to earthquakes remains a critical concern. Authorities and communities need to prioritize building resilience and preparedness for future seismic events to safeguard lives and properties.

Original Source: watchers.news