Micro 2.6 Earthquake – Costa Rica
A micro magnitude 2.6 earthquake struck near Costa Rica on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 11:29:52 AM UTC. This shallow crustal event (30.0 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 120 kg of TNT. Here is the verified UNA telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
Seismic Telemetry Specifications
2.6M
Micro Seismic Class
30.0km
Crustal Layer
9.007° N, 84.076° W
GPS Coordinates
120 kg
TNT Equivalent Power
UNA
USGS Real-time Feed
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 2.6 event is classified as a micro earthquake. Micro-earthquakes are rarely felt by humans and are typically recorded only by sensitive seismometers.
Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities
Felt by almost no one except under extraordinarily favorable conditions.
Did You Feel This Earthquake?
Help seismologists and community members map real-world ground shaking near Costa Rica.
Your immediate response verifies shaking boundaries and helps ground-truth instrumental models.
What Does Magnitude 2.6 Mean?
Earthquake strength is measured on a logarithmic scale. Compare this event with the full seismic scale:
Logarithmic Energy Multiplier
Because seismic scales are logarithmic, each whole integer increase represents:
Why Did This Earthquake Happen?
Costa Rica's seismicity is fundamentally governed by its tectonic setting: Subduction of the oceanic Cocos Plate beneath the Caribbean Plate along the Middle America Trench at ~85 mm/year, plus Panama Block collision. Major regional fault structures include Middle America Trench, Central Costa Rica Deformed Belt, Aguacaliente Fault.
Originating at a depth of 30.0 km (Earth's Crust (0–70 km)), this rupture occurred occurred within the brittle upper crust. shallow earthquakes produce the highest peak ground acceleration and the sharpest surface shaking.
Aftershock Outlook & Secondary Tremors
Micro-tremors and minor events of this scale are part of ongoing background tectonic relaxation. While isolated micro-aftershocks may occur, the likelihood of a damaging secondary event remains statistically low under normal seismic conditions.
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Earthquake Safety Action Plan
Complete Safety Guide →- •Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Take cover beneath a sturdy table or desk.
- •Stay indoors away from exterior glass windows and heavy unanchored fixtures.
- •If outdoors, move into an open area away from power lines and building facades.
- •Inspect utilities for damaged gas lines, water leaks, or electrical hazards.
- •Expect Aftershocks: Secondary tremors frequently strike after significant events.
- •Avoid damaged structures and listen to official emergency broadcasts.
- •Maintain a 72-hour emergency go-bag with water, food, and first aid.
- •Anchor heavy furniture, water heaters, and appliances to structural studs.
- •Establish a family emergency communication protocol and meeting point.
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