A 6.2-magnitude earthquake struck in the North Pacific Ocean near Costa Rica on Saturday afternoon. The earthquake occurred about 25 miles northwest of Tamarindo, according to the United States Geological Survey. Seismologists are reviewing data to determine the actual magnitude of the earthquake, and additional information may prompt updates to the shake-severity map. Aftershocks, which are smaller earthquakes that follow a larger one, are expected in the region. Aftershocks can occur days, weeks, or even years after the initial earthquake and can be of equal or larger magnitude, continuing to impact already damaged areas. The U.S.G.S. provides shake intensity maps based on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale, showing earthquakes within 100 miles and seven days of the initial quake. The data is constantly being updated, with shake data as of Saturday afternoon and aftershocks data as of Sunday afternoon. These seismic events serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of earthquakes and the impact they can have on communities.
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