Quake near central Pacific coast felt throughout Costa Rica

A 5.0 magnitude earthquake shook Costa Rica Thursday at 10:31 a.m.

The epicenter was 10 kilometers southwest of Orotina, a town just inland from the central Pacific coast. The tremor occurred at 40 kilometers below the earth´s surface, according to the Volcanological and Seismological Observatory of Costa Rica (Ovsicori), based at the National University.

Shaking was felt throughout the country, Ovsicori reported. The National Emergency Commission and the Red Cross had received no reports of damage or injuries at press time.

The National Seismological Network (RSN), based at the University of Costa Rica, recorded the tremor was a 4.2 magnitude shake and struck 55 kilometers deep. The RSN reported that the epicenter was six kilometers southeast of Orotina.

The U.S. Geological Survey recorded the quake at 4.5 magnitude and 35 kilometers deep.

Each institute has its own equipment in different locations and measuring at different depths. As a result, magnitude and location readings often differ.