Subtle Earth Vibration Triggers Severe Consequences
The frequency of an imperceptible earth vibration lasting 10 minutes might have gone unnoticed, but its aftermath was painfully apparent. This rare geological event resulted in catastrophic landslides, rivers overflowing, widespread property damage, suspended classes, closed bridges, and an unnerving air of uncertainty about the future.
Aguas Zarcas: Victim of Repeated Natural Disasters
Aguas Zarcas, a district of San Carlos, seems to have been dealt a harsh hand by fate. In 2019, it bore the brunt of a meteor shower. Now, four years later, it faces new fears as potential rainfall threatens to trigger further landslides from the top of the Juan Castro Blanco National Park.
Landslide Breaks Free: A Timeline of Events
Unstable material on the mountainside started sliding on July 14th. A day later, a massive landslide ensued, lasting for 10 minutes and leading to tons of material cascading down the mountains. There are four lagoons atop the affected area that could exacerbate the situation with additional rainfall.
The Fallout: Damage and Displacement
The landslide unleashed a maelish of sticks, stones, mud, and hundreds of logs, creating a 400-meter long dam. This led to the Agua Zarcas river overflowing, causing property damage and necessitating the closure of a key bridge between Aguas Zarcas and Ciudad Quesada. Local schools were forced to suspend classes.
The total volume of the displaced material is still undetermined. However, within the first two kilometers of the affected area alone, the volume is estimated at a staggering 3 million cubic meters, three times the volume of the National Stadium.
Ignored Warnings and Future Plans
For 15 years, Freddy Méndez has been alerting the National Commission of Emergencies about this potential risk. A geologist previously visited the site and deemed it safe. When weather conditions improve, overflights will be executed to assess the extent of the devastation and identify at-risk areas.
The Environmental Impact: Threat to Aquatic and Terrestrial Fauna
The disaster doesn’t only have human implications; it also significantly impacts the ecosystem. Aquatic fauna face a lack of oxygen in rivers while animals such as monkeys, jaguars, and tapirs are losing their habitat.
The mudflows in certain areas are waist deep, making them perilous. The public is advised to stay clear of these regions to avoid any unfortunate incidents.
