A 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Costa Rica on October 12, 2024, at a depth of 18 km. The tremor was felt by approximately 1.9 million people, with no tsunami threat reported. Despite a low likelihood of serious damage, the region’s vulnerability remains alarming due to the prevalent construction practices.
On October 12, 2024, at 17:43 local time, a significant earthquake measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale occurred offshore of Costa Rica. The earthquake was reported to have a shallow depth of 18 kilometers (approximately 11.2 miles) by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), a measurement that was corroborated by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). The epicenter of the quake was situated approximately 41.4 kilometers (25.7 miles) to the northwest of Tamarindo, 67 kilometers (41.6 miles) northwest of Santa Cruz, and 75.9 kilometers (47.1 miles) west of Liberia, all located in the Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica. The tremor was reported to have been felt by an estimated 69,000 individuals who experienced moderate shaking, while around 1,856,000 residents reported light shaking. Despite the earthquake’s intensity, there is no tsunami threat associated with this event. The USGS has issued a Green alert concerning potential shaking-related fatalities and economic losses, indicating a low likelihood of deaths and damages, although concerns remain regarding the vulnerability of structures in the vicinity. It is noteworthy that many dwellings in this region may not be appropriately designed to withstand seismic activity, with predominant construction types being mud wall and adobe block buildings. Historically, earthquakes in this area have also led to secondary hazards, including landslides and liquefaction, which have further exacerbated damage and posed risks to residents.
Seismic activity is a common phenomenon in Costa Rica due to its location along the boundary of several tectonic plates. This geological setting makes the region prone to earthquakes, some of which can be powerful and have significant impacts on local communities. Understanding the nature and magnitude of such events is crucial for preparedness and risk mitigation. The USGS and EMSC provide valuable data and monitoring for such occurrences, aiding in public awareness and safety measures. As past earthquakes have demonstrated, the construction standards in vulnerable areas often fail to meet the necessary safety requirements, making it critical to evaluate the potential consequences and formulate effective disaster response plans.
In summary, the 6.2 magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Costa Rica on October 12, 2024, was a significant seismic event that was felt by millions. Although it did not trigger a tsunami and there appears to be a low likelihood of serious casualties or damage according to the USGS Green alert, the structural vulnerability of many buildings in the region remains a serious concern. Continuous monitoring and preparedness efforts are essential for enhancing community resilience against future seismic activities.
Original Source: watchers.news
