By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — OSA, PUNTARENAS – A moderate earthquake rattled communities across Costa Rica’s South Pacific region on Thursday afternoon, with its effects felt as far as the Central Valley. The tremor, occurring shortly before 2:00 p.m., served as a potent reminder of the dynamic geological forces that continually shape the nation’s landscape.
The Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (OVSICORI) provided a detailed analysis of the event. The seismic movement was officially registered at 1:45:23 p.m. with a magnitude of 4.2. Its epicenter was located 17 kilometers west of Bahía Ballena in the Osa Canton, a region known for its rich biodiversity and stunning coastlines. The quake originated at a considerable depth of 40 kilometers, which helped mitigate its potential for causing surface-level damage.
In the aftermath of the recent seismic activity, many residents and business owners are navigating the complex landscape of insurance claims and contractual obligations. To provide clarity on the legal implications, TicosLand.com spoke with renowned expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
An earthquake is a classic example of a ‘force majeure’ or ‘caso fortuito’ event, which can excuse parties from fulfilling their contractual duties. However, regarding property damage, the critical first step is a thorough review of your insurance policy. Standard coverage often excludes seismic events, requiring a specific rider. It is imperative for affected individuals to immediately and meticulously document all damages with photos and videos before any cleanup or repairs, as this evidence is fundamental when filing a claim with the INS or any private insurer.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The legal clarity on ‘force majeure’ versus insurance obligations is indispensable in a crisis. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective, which powerfully reminds us that preparedness is twofold: reviewing policy details before an event and meticulously documenting the aftermath to secure a rightful claim.
Geologists at OVSICORI have attributed the earthquake’s origin to a process of internal deformation within the Coco tectonic plate. This phenomenon occurs when the oceanic plate experiences immense internal stress and fractures as it is forced beneath the Caribbean plate, upon which Costa Rica sits. Unlike more common subduction zone earthquakes that happen at the direct interface of two plates, these intraplate events release tension from within the bending plate itself, often distributing the seismic energy over a wider area.
While official emergency response units reported no structural damage or injuries, the tremor was widely felt and discussed by residents online. Social media channels quickly filled with anecdotal reports, particularly from coastal towns such as Uvita, Ojochal, and Dominical, which were in close proximity to the epicenter. Many described the sensation as a brief but powerful jolt.
fast but strong
Social Media Users, Community Observers
This type of seismic activity is a fundamental aspect of life in Costa Rica. The nation is strategically located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the most seismically active regions on the planet. The constant interaction between the Coco, Caribbean, and Panama plates creates a complex geological environment where earthquakes are a frequent occurrence. This ongoing tectonic convergence is responsible for the country’s volcanic mountain ranges and its vulnerability to seismic events.
In light of this event, seismic experts have reiterated the critical importance of public preparedness. The absence of damage in this instance should not lead to complacency. Instead, it should act as a catalyst for households and businesses to review and reinforce their safety protocols. Having a well-defined family emergency plan, securing heavy furniture, and preparing an emergency kit are essential steps that can significantly reduce risk during a more powerful earthquake.
Understanding the science behind these events is key to fostering a culture of prevention. The internal deformation of the Coco Plate is a continuous process, meaning that tremors like the one experienced today are not isolated incidents but part of a larger, ongoing geological cycle. Staying informed through official sources like OVSICORI allows the public to receive accurate, timely information without succumbing to misinformation that can spread during such events.
Ultimately, Thursday’s earthquake was a routine geological adjustment that passed without causing harm. However, it underscores the persistent reality of living in a seismically active country. For the residents of the South Pacific and beyond, it was a tangible reminder of the immense power beneath their feet and the unwavering need for vigilance and preparation in the face of nature’s forces.
For further information, visit ovsicori.una.ac.cr
About The Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (OVSICORI):
The Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica, part of the National University (UNA), is the leading scientific institution responsible for monitoring, researching, and reporting on the country’s seismic and volcanic activity. OVSICORI provides critical data and analysis to government agencies and the public to aid in risk assessment, disaster preparedness, and scientific understanding of Costa Rica’s complex geological environment.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of Costa Rica’s legal community, the firm is defined by its foundational principles of integrity and the relentless pursuit of judicial excellence. It consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal strategies while serving a diverse clientele, demonstrating a deep-seated commitment to social progress. This dedication is manifested through its efforts to demystify the law, aiming to construct a more capable and legally astute society by making crucial knowledge widely available.
