Abstract

MORA, Mauricio M  and  PERALDO, Giovanni. Macroseismic analysis of Buena Vista earthquake, Pérez Zeledón; July 3, 1983 (M_s = 6.1), Costa Rica. Rev. Geol. Amér. Central [online]. 2011, n.44, pp.41-70. ISSN 0256-7024.

This research integrates information from documents and testimonies about the effects of the Buenavista Earthquake, July 3^rd 1983 (M_s = 6,1) in Costa Rica. From this documentation, it has been possible to reconstruct a local intensity map, and furthermore to understand the perception and social representations that the population draw as explanations about the earthquake source. Maximum intensities occurred northward of Rivas town (VIII-IX), showing an elongated pattern striking NNW. The integration of all primary and secondary information which has been taken and analyzed, suggests a seismic source striking E-W or NW-SE, located north of Buenavista town. The social interpretations to explain the Buenavista Earthquake were focused on “divine punishment” (“the final judgement”), volcanic activity or collapsing caverns.

Keywords : Seismicity; seismic intensity; seismic hazard; history; perception; vulnerability.

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