SAN JOSÉ, Costa Rica, Oct. 21, 2025 — A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck south of San José on Tuesday night, according to the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). The tremor occurred at 9:57 p.m. local time at a depth of 31 kilometers (19 miles), with its epicenter located approximately 62 kilometers south of the capital.
Impact and Response
The quake was widely felt across central Costa Rica, including in towns such as Quepos, San Isidro, and San Rafael Abajo, where residents reported light to moderate shaking. Emergency services were placed on alert, but no immediate reports of injuries or structural damage have been confirmed.
Costa Rica’s National Emergency Commission (CNE) issued a preliminary assessment indicating a low humanitarian impact, consistent with the Green Alert level assigned by the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS) GDACS.
Seismic Context
Costa Rica lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, a seismically active zone where tectonic plates frequently shift. While earthquakes are common in the region, Tuesday’s tremor was one of the strongest recorded in 2025, prompting renewed attention to building safety standards and emergency preparedness.
Public Reaction
Local media reported brief panic in coastal and inland communities, with some residents evacuating buildings as a precaution. Authorities urged the public to remain calm and follow official guidance, noting that aftershocks may occur but are expected to be minor.
Summary: A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck Costa Rica near San José on Tuesday night, causing widespread tremors but no major damage or casualties. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, with emergency protocols in place and seismic assessments ongoing.
Sources: EMSC The Print; US News US News; Volcano Discovery VolcanoDiscovery; GDACS GDACS.
