A strong earthquake of magnitude 6.2 struck off the coast of Costa Rica on October 12, 2024, registering a depth of 18 km. The quake was felt by approximately 1.9 million people, leading to a USGS Green alert indicating low risk for casualties and damage. No tsunami threat was reported.
On October 12, 2024, at 17:43 local time (11:43 UTC), a strong earthquake measuring 6.2 on the moment magnitude scale struck off the coast of Costa Rica. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported the earthquake’s depth as 18 kilometers (11.2 miles). The earthquake’s epicenter was determined to be located 41.4 kilometers (25.7 miles) northwest of Tamarindo, a town with a population of approximately 6,375; 67 kilometers (41.6 miles) west-northwest of Santa Cruz, home to around 12,281 residents; and 75.9 kilometers (47.1 miles) west of Liberia, which has a population of 45,380, all situated in the Guanacaste Province. An estimated 69,000 individuals experienced moderate shaking from the quake, while a larger population of approximately 1,856,000 felt light shaking. The USGS has issued a Green alert indicating a low likelihood of casualties and property damage. There is no tsunami threat associated with this seismic event. The region’s population primarily resides in construction types that are notably vulnerable to seismic activity, such as structures built from mud walls and adobe blocks. It is important to note that previous seismic events in this area have resulted in secondary hazards including landslides and liquefaction, which may have compounded potential damages.
Seismology is a crucial field of study that focuses on the occurrence, behavior, and impact of earthquakes around the globe. Costa Rica is situated in a seismically active region characterized by various tectonic boundaries, making it susceptible to earthquakes. This particular incident highlights the importance of monitoring seismic activity, understanding building vulnerabilities, and preparing for potential disasters, particularly in areas with a history of previous seismic hazards. The interaction between tectonic plates contributes significantly to the frequency and intensity of earthquakes in this location, affecting populations and infrastructure.
In conclusion, the M6.2 earthquake off the coast of Costa Rica, while significant, has been assessed by the USGS to pose a low risk of severe consequences in terms of casualties and economic loss. The region’s structural vulnerabilities necessitate continued awareness and preparation for seismic events. Given the geological context of Costa Rica and past occurrences of secondary earthquake-related hazards, ongoing monitoring and public education remain critical for enhancing community resilience.
Original Source: watchers.news
