Magnitude 6.2 Earthquake Strikes Offshore Costa Rica on October 12, 2024

On October 12, 2024, a strong M6.2 earthquake occurred off the coast of Costa Rica at a depth of 18 km. The epicenter was located northwest of key towns, with an estimated 69,000 people experiencing moderate shaking. There is no tsunami threat associated with this event, and although structures in the region are generally vulnerable to earthquakes, the expected impact is categorized as minimal.

A magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck offshore from Costa Rica on October 12, 2024, at 17:43 local time (11:43 UTC). The earthquake was shallow, with a reported depth of 18 kilometers (11.2 miles), as confirmed by both the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). The epicenter was situated approximately 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, all of which are located in the Guanacaste Province of Costa Rica. Estimates indicated that approximately 69,000 individuals experienced moderate shaking, while around 1.856 million felt light tremors. Fortunately, the earthquake has not triggered any tsunami threat. The USGS has categorized the event under a Green alert status, suggesting a minor likelihood of fatalities and economic impacts, despite the high vulnerability of many local structures to seismic activity. Most buildings in this region are constructed with materials prone to damage in such events, particularly mud walls and adobe blocks, although some structures are designed to withstand earthquakes. Moreover, historical occurrences of seismic activity in this area have led to secondary hazards like landslides and liquefaction, which could potentially exacerbate losses.

The occurrence of earthquakes off the coast of Costa Rica is a common phenomenon attributed to the complex tectonic interactions of the Cocos and Caribbean plates. Earthquake magnitudes vary, and while some result in significant destruction, others, like the recent M6.2 event, may induce moderate to light shaking felt by local populations. Seismologists continuously monitor seismic activities to assess potential threats, particularly considering the vulnerability of local architecture to earthquakes. The recent event, classified as strong and shallow, underscores the need for preparedness in earthquake-prone areas.

In conclusion, the recent M6.2 earthquake off the coast of Costa Rica was a significant geological event characterized by shallow depth and moderate to light shaking across a broad area. While no tsunami was generated and the potential for damage is assessed as low, the vulnerability of local construction methods remains a concern, emphasizing the importance of ongoing seismic preparedness and public awareness in earthquake-prone regions.

Original Source: watchers.news