Powerful earthquake hits Costa Rica

Nature Posted on 06/09/2012

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A magnitude 7.6 earthquake hit Costa Rica on Wednesday, causing landslides and a brief tsunami warning, as well as damage to hotels and houses.

The powerful earthquake is thought to have killed two so far, and injured around 20 others, though the Red Cross could not confirm exact numbers.

An immediate tsunami warning was issued by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center for the coastlines of Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Panama, but this was later retracted, as well as earlier warnings for Mexico and Peru.

Costa Rican emergency services have also reported that the quake has triggered several landslides, some of which are currently blocking roads.

Alcides Mora, spokesperson for the Costa Rican Tourism Institute stated that around 21 hotels have reported minor damage, especially in regions to the north of the country. Travellers to the area are advised to check with hotels before travelling; however there have so far been no reported hotel closures.

The north-western region of Guanacaste was at the epicentre of the quake, experiencing disruption to power supplies and communications, and the evacuation of Monsenor Sanabria hospital after its façade started to crumble during the quake.

The area is extremely popular with Hollywood stars, including Mel Gibson, who owns a large forest retreat not far from the epicentre.

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In brief : Nature