03 Sep 2022 | 07:33 AM UTC
Costa Rica: Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs west of Puntarenas Province, Sept. 3
Magnitude-5.0 offshore earthquake occurs west of Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica at around 01:53 Sept. 3. No immediate reports of damages.
Event
A magnitude-5.0 earthquake occurred west of Puntarenas Province, at around 01:53 Sept. 3. The epicenter was about 34 km (21 miles) west of Ciudad Cortes. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 15 km (9 miles), and moderate-to-light shaking was probably felt throughout much of the central and southern Costa Rica. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake, and significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days. The event has not prompted any tsunami advisories.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
