You really can't have everything in life. Tropical regions may have the abundance of wildlife and natural wonders that can attract the world's most worthy adventurers, but constant natural calamities hinder tropical regions from advancing forward. Earthquakes and volcanoes are just among the problems that many of these destinations face year after year.
Costa Rica itself was unfortunate last year because of the Cinchona earthquake that happened last January 8, 2009. The earthquake, which was felt in the entire country and in parts of Nicaragua, took away at least 34 lives and 64 missing people. Hundreds of people were stuck in their homes because of the landslides that cut away at least two towns from communication.
This year, another surprise hit Costa Rica with the volcanic tremors inside the Turrialba Volcano, 40km from San Jose. This has triggered an ash eruption not seen in the volcano in the last 140 years.
No reports of deaths or injuries were recorded, but a few dozen people have to be evacuated because they live within the 6km danger zone set by the national government. This is a region where it is expected that the ash will be too thick--too dangerous for human health. In case of a full-scale eruption, those inside the 6km danger zone will also be the most affected.
Fortunately, experts said that while unusual activity is expected to happen in the next few days, lava flow is hardly likely at this point. Despite this, the government has to make sure, of course.
Turrialba Volcano is among the country's favorite destinations, especially because it has three craters The volcano last displayed smoke activity 134 years ago, which allowed scientists to find out that the magma body beneath the surface of the body is constantly cooling down. The recent ash explosion was really a bit of surprise for everyone.
Ah, Costa Rica. I know this is the sad fact that you have to face. These natural disasters are the payments you have to make in exchange of your natural wonders.
