Costa Rica Ranks Among Top Countries for Earthquake Frequency in 2024
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Costa Rica experienced notable seismic activity in 2024, placing it among the top 30 countries with the most earthquakes worldwide. Ranking Royals published the list in May 2025,using data from earthquakelist.org. The report indicated that Costa Rica recorded 241 earthquakes with a magnitude of 4 or greater, securing its 24th position [1].
Why is Costa Rica Prone to Earthquakes?
Costa Rica’s location at the meeting point of the Cocos and Caribbean tectonic plates makes it susceptible to frequent seismic events. while most are moderate and cause minimal damage, stronger earthquakes have occurred, causing concern among the population.
Did You Know? The strongest earthquake in Costa Rica during 2024 measured 6.2 and occurred in the North and Central Pacific region,approximately 41 km northwest of Tamarindo,in October.
Global Earthquake Hotspots
Mexico topped the list with 1,971 recorded earthquakes in 2024. Indonesia (1,872) and Japan (1,563) followed, highlighting the constant tectonic activity in these regions due to the convergence of multiple geological plates. The strongest earthquake in Japan during 2024 struck the Ishikawa-ken region of Toyama on January 1, registering a magnitude of 7.5 [2].
Other Latin American countries with high seismic activity include Chile, guatemala, Peru, and El Salvador.
| Country | Number of Earthquakes (Magnitude ≥ 4) |
|---|---|
| Mexico | 1,971 |
| Indonesia | 1,872 |
| Japan | 1,563 |
| Costa Rica | 241 |
Pro Tip: Stay informed about earthquake preparedness measures in your area. Knowing what to do during an earthquake can significantly reduce your risk of injury.
Understanding Earthquake Measurement
Earthquakes included in the count had to have a magnitude equal to or greater than 4 and occur within 300 kilometers of the evaluated country. The United States Geological survey and the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre provided the data for the report.
Earthquake History and Tectonic Plates
Earthquakes are a natural phenomenon caused by the movement of tectonic plates beneath the Earth’s surface. These plates are constantly shifting, and when they collide, slide past each other, or subduct (one plate sliding under another), stress builds up. When this stress exceeds the strength of the rocks, it releases energy in the form of seismic waves, causing an earthquake.
costa Rica’s location along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur, contributes to its high seismic activity. The Cocos Plate is subducting beneath the Caribbean Plate in this region, leading to frequent earthquakes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Earthquakes in Costa Rica
What steps do you take to prepare for earthquakes? Share your tips in the comments below!
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