Abstract

SANABRIA-COTO, Iván J.  and  BONILLA-HIDALGO, Maureen A.. Identification of apparent sonic and light manifestations of “Earthquake Lights” (Eqls) types in some narratives as an alternative source of possible evidence about Historical Tectonic Activity in Costa Rica. Rev. Geog. Amer. Central [online]. 2024, n.72, pp.455-490. ISSN 2215-2563.  http://dx.doi.org/10.15359/rgac.72-1.17.

In this study, 13 narratives depicting manifestations, specifically sonic, light, and mixed occurrences, in specific geographic sectors of Costa Rica are analyzed. The purpose is to highlight the importance of reports, stories, and legends as alternative or indirect means of documenting potential seismic/tectonic activity. The analysis commences with the identification, compilation, and classification of these narratives. Additionally, consideration is given to the contextual factors, including geographic, geological, and seismic/tectonic elements associated with each narrative. This process is followed by a comparison with the most important aspects described in the international scientific literature concerning sonic and earthquake lights or EQLs. In conclusion, an evident correlation of the narratives among themselves is inferred, and with cases documented and investigated worldwide, besides a geospatial connection of their geographic, geological, and seismic/tectonic contexts, suggesting the possibility of being part of alternative or indirect evidence of historical tectonic activity in Costa Rica.

Keywords : Legends; Earthquake Lights (EQLs); tectonism; seismicity; Costa Rica.

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