Powerful 5.9 Earthquake Strikes Off Costa Rica’s Coast South of San Jose in the North Pacific Ocean on October 22, 2025

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Powerful 5.9 Earthquake Strikes Off Costa Rica’s Coast South of San Jose in the North Pacific Ocean on October 22, 2025

A powerful earthquake measuring 5.9 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of Costa Rica on October 22, 2025. The epicenter was located south of San Jose in the North Pacific Ocean. This seismic event was widely felt across various regions, impacting both Costa Rica and neighboring areas.

Impact and Shaking Reports from the Earthquake

The earthquake led to varying intensities of shaking, as measured by the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale (MMI). Below is a summary of notable reports from different locations:

Quepos: Located 6.9 km NNE of the epicenter, the area experienced strong shaking (MMI VI) with significant effects. Many reported items falling off shelves.
San Jose: Approximately 68.3 km N of the epicenter, residents felt light shaking (MMI IV), mainly while in bed. It lasted around 30 to 60 seconds.
Platanillo: This area, located 41 km ESE of the epicenter, experienced moderate shaking (MMI V) for 10 to 15 seconds, causing noticeable rattling and vibrations.
Pavas: Around 64.8 km N of the epicenter, there was weak shaking (MMI III) and reports of dogs barking and power lines swaying.
San Isidro: Situated 53.6 km E of the epicenter, strong shaking (MMI VI) was reported, causing items to fall off shelves.

Further Affected Areas

Several other regions reported light to moderate shaking:

Limon: 67.3 km N of the epicenter, reported light shaking that lasted about a minute.
Dominicalito: Users experienced light shaking (MMI IV) while asleep, leading to bed movements and power outages.
Coco Beach, Panama: Although located 191.8 km SE of the epicenter, some felt weak shaking characterized by circular movements for up to two minutes.

Understanding the Earthquake Intensity

The intensity of an earthquake describes how much shaking occurs at the surface, measured using the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale. This scale ranges from I (not felt) to X (extreme shaking). Key factors affecting intensity include the earthquake’s magnitude, depth, and distance from the epicenter.

This earthquake serves as a stark reminder of the seismic activity present in the Central American region. Communities are urged to stay informed and prepared for potential aftershocks and future seismic events.