Resumen

ARROYO-SOLORZANO, Mario. Impact of tsunamis in Puerto Viejo, Limón, Tortuguero, and Manuel Antonio through numerical modeling of large earthquakes in the Caribbean and Central-South Pacific off Costa Rica. Rev. Geog. Amer. Central [online]. 2026, n.77, pp.45-66.  Epub 10-Mar-2026. ISSN 2215-2563.  http://dx.doi.org/10.15359/rgac.77-2.2.

Three hypothetical tsunami scenarios are modeled for Costa Rica, generated by two potential ruptures in the Caribbean (M w 7.9 and 7.6) and one in the Central-Southern Pacific (M w 8.1). In addition to analyzing tsunami generation from these seismic sources, wavefront propagation patterns are evaluated, revealing differences in direction, speed, and energy concentration. Time series of wave height derived from the simulations are also presented for key coastal locations in the country, both in the Caribbean (Tortuguero, Limón, and Puerto Viejo) and the Pacific (Manuel Antonio), all of which are of high touristic and demographic importance. Based on these simulations, the potential flooding impact was inferred through estimated coastal wave heights. These results provide valuable input for evacuation planning and represent a strategic tool for landuse planning, especially in areas where urban and touristic development must prioritize tsunami risk.

Palabras clave : Costa Rica; Earthquake; Flood; Modeling; Tsunami; Wave.

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