Costa Rica is currently facing a weather crisis that’s stretching the nation’s resources and patience to the limit. As heavy rains continue to batter the country, Costa Ricans are experiencing widespread flooding, dangerous landslides, and river overflows that are turning communities into islands. The government and emergency services are in overdrive, and Costa Ricans are bracing for even more wet days ahead.
National Alert: What the Weather Has in Store
The National Emergency Commission (CNE) has extended an orange alert across most of Costa Rica, with the only exception being the South Caribbean region, which remains under a yellow alert. This high alert status means that the country is in critical condition, and authorities are on constant standby for emergency situations. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) has warned that heavy rainfall isn’t going away anytime soon. The forecast predicts downpours lasting at least through Tuesday, November 12.
The issue, of course, isn’t just the rain itself—it’s the impact on the already saturated ground across key regions like the North Pacific, Caribbean, Central Valley, and Northern Zone. These areas are at an 85% to 100% saturation level, which means any additional rain could result in even more river overflows and landslides. Guanacaste is particularly struggling, with over 1,000 people evacuated to 23 emergency shelters. Towns like Filadelfia, Lepanto, Jicaral, and Carrillo are experiencing severe flooding, with entire roads submerged and rivers spilling over their banks.
Communities Underwater and People Displaced
One of the hardest-hit areas is Costa Rica’s Southern Zone, where places like Palmar Sur and Corredores are dealing with severe floods. Moving over to the Caribbean province of Limón, the situation is equally dire. Communities such as Pococí, Guapiles, and Toro Amarillo have been drenched and are now trying to recover from significant flooding.
The number of evacuees is growing, and the shelters are filling up with Costa Ricans who have been forced from their homes by rising waters. In Guanacaste alone, more than a thousand people are seeking refuge in emergency facilities, wondering when or if they’ll be able to return home. Roads are washed out, access is blocked, and many of these communities are virtually cut off, making the efforts of emergency responders even more challenging.
Missing Persons: A Grim Reality
Unfortunately, it’s not just about property damage. The Red Cross has reported that four people are currently missing due to the recent extreme weather events. Among the missing are a fisherman from Cuajiniquil de Santa Cruz, a woman last seen near the María Aguilar River in San José, a man who fell into the Torres River by Calle Blancos, and another individual whose details remain confidential. Rescue efforts are ongoing, but with the relentless rain and unpredictable conditions, these searches are far from simple.
The Government’s Climate Adaptation Plan
The Costa Rican government isn’t ignoring the long-term impact of these recurring weather disasters. Recently, it launched a Climate Adaptation Plan for Protected Wildlife Areas aimed at preserving Costa Rica’s precious biodiversity and addressing the increasing frequency and severity of these events. The goal is to prepare not just the country’s human populations but also its rich ecosystems to better withstand the effects of climate change.
This plan may not solve today’s problem, but it represents a much-needed effort to prepare Costa Rica for a future in which severe weather events may become the new normal. For a country famous for its eco-tourism and natural beauty, protecting its wildlife and landscapes is as much a priority as safeguarding its citizens.
Education Suspended as Safety Precaution
Due to the dangerous conditions, the Ministry of Public Education (MEP) has suspended classes nationwide. This decision isn’t just about keeping kids safe from traveling in hazardous conditions; it’s also about the integrity of school buildings, many of which are located in areas now at risk of landslides and floods. In places with saturated soils, the risk of landslides isn’t a distant possibility; it’s a real, pressing concern. The ministry will reassess the situation, but for now, Costa Rican students are staying home.
Costa Ricans Urged to Be Cautious
With heavy rainfall continuing, Costa Rican authorities are pleading with residents to take precautions. Citizens are advised to stay away from rivers, flooded roads, and especially bridges that have been compromised by the relentless downpours. The CNE has been clear: don’t take risks, because conditions can change in an instant. For emergencies, Costa Ricans are reminded to call 9-1-1 for immediate assistance.
The response from authorities has been robust, but the government can only do so much when nature is on a rampage. Emergency services are working around the clock, but they need the cooperation of citizens to minimize the number of incidents. Staying informed and avoiding unnecessary travel in affected areas can help Costa Ricans weather this storm safely.
How Costa Ricans Can Help
During times like these, Costa Rica’s community spirit shines. Neighbors are coming together to help one another, but those who aren’t affected directly can also do their part. Whether it’s donating to local relief efforts, volunteering in safe conditions, or simply offering support to those displaced, every bit helps. The Costa Rican people have a history of resilience, and this situation, as challenging as it is, won’t be any different.
A Glimpse Into the Future
These extreme weather patterns are a warning sign of a potential future where such events are more common. Costa Rica’s government is taking steps in the right direction with initiatives like the Climate Adaptation Plan, but there’s no denying the urgency for even broader action. From improved drainage infrastructure to stricter building codes in vulnerable areas, Costa Rica can—and must—bolster its defenses against the forces of nature.
Closing Thoughts
Costa Rica is a resilient country, no stranger to the challenges that come with living in a tropical paradise. But as the rains continue and rivers swell, Costa Ricans are reminded of nature’s power and unpredictability. While there’s a national sense of pride in weathering these storms, it’s also clear that the country’s growing focus on climate adaptation and community safety is essential for a sustainable future.
The immediate priority is to navigate the current crisis, but Costa Rica’s long-term goal remains clear: safeguarding its people, its natural beauty, and its way of life. Through a combination of emergency response, community resilience, and forward-thinking environmental policies, Costa Rica is setting a course to ensure that it can face whatever weather challenges the future may hold.
