6.0 magnitude earthquake shakes Southern Zone of Costa Rica: Concern over aftershocks and experts' alert

An earthquake of 6.0 magnitude on the Richter scale shook the Southern Zone of Costa Rica this Monday, causing alarm among the population and raising concerns among the authorities responsible for disaster management. The seismic event occurred at 1:19 p.m. near the border with Panama, specifically in the canton of Corredores, at a depth of just 4 kilometers. The magnitude of the tremor made it felt in various areas of the country, including the Burica peninsula, Osa, Pérez Zeledón, and sectors of the Central Valley. Following the main earthquake, more than 15 aftershocks have been recorded, with the most significant one reaching 5.7 magnitude. These secondary movements have kept the population on edge, fearing the possibility of a larger event. Experts from the National University's Volcanological and Seismological Observatory (Ovsicori) have explained that aftershocks are common after a tremor of this magnitude, as it is due to the redistribution of static stresses in the southern region of the country. The sequence of tremors has generated uncertainty among the inhabitants of the affected areas, who recall past experiences with devastating seismic events. Costa Rica's seismic vulnerability, located in a high tectonic activity zone, makes these types of events recurrent, though no less alarming. In response to the situation, authorities have advised the population to remain calm and be prepared to act in case of an emergency. The importance of prevention and preparedness for seismic risk situations has been emphasized by the competent authorities, stressing the need for contingency plans and effective early warning systems. The vulnerability of infrastructures and buildings in high seismicity areas is a concern for experts, who warn about the potential damage that a larger earthquake could cause. The country's geodynamics and its location in the Pacific Ring of Fire make Costa Rica prone to seismic events of varying magnitudes. Therefore, it is essential for the population to be informed and prepared to respond appropriately in the event of a large-scale earthquake. Collaboration between scientific institutions, emergency agencies, and society at large is crucial to reduce the impact of such natural phenomena. Ovsicori experts have pointed out that, although aftershocks are normal in these cases, the possibility of a larger event occurring in the coming hours or days cannot be ruled out. In light of this warning, it is crucial to stay informed through official sources and follow the recommendations of the authorities. Prevention and awareness of seismic risk are fundamental aspects to ensure the safety and well-being of the population in emergency situations. In summary, the 6.0 magnitude earthquake in the Southern Zone of Costa Rica has raised concern and alertness among the population, especially due to the recorded aftershocks and the potential for a larger event. Preparedness, prevention, and collaboration between institutions and society are key to facing such risk situations. It is time to stay vigilant, remain calm, and follow the instructions of the authorities to ensure safety and an adequate response to a possible natural disaster.