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Published Tuesday, May 19, 2020
Authorities declare green alert
for new tropical wave
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff
The National Commission of Emergencies declared on Monday a state of Green Alert for the Pacific Coast and San José Province due to a new Tropical Wave, which will cause a pattern of heavy rains this week.
A green alert is given when it is anticipated that a meteorological phenomenon endangers a specific area in the country. The authorities act to keep the public informed so that they will report to 911 for any indication of danger related to the warning.
According to the authorities, the highest effect of the tropical wave could be registered on Wednesday, causing heavy rains mainly along the Pacific Coast, in the provinces of Puntarenas, Guanacaste and San José.
"In the middle of a pandemic this is not a good scenario," said Alexander Solís, president of the Commission. Because these phenomena may cause floods that affect families who should be relocated to shelters.
The alert will allow local emergency committees to be wary of weather conditions, keep monitoring the sectors of highest risk, and report the inventory of supplies available to serve the population in case of a major crisis.
Authorities call on the public to take the following precautionary measures:
• Stay informed about the alerts issued by the authorities.
• People living in mountain areas should increase precautionary measures against a possible landslide or material falling from the high areas of the hills.
• Have an evacuation emergency plan in the community, work and home.
• Drivers must increase precautions for heavy rain and fog.
• Take precautionary measures in case of electrical storms.
• Be alert in vulnerable areas to flooding due to sewer saturation or increase of river flow.
• In case of a thunderstorm, take refuge in a safe place.
• In case of strong wind gusts be alert to possible falling tree branches or electrical cables.
Authorities asked the public to call 911 to report any possible flooding, falling trees or landslides. A call was also made for people to avoid any type of controlled fire because high winds could cause a small fire to become ablaze quickly.
A.M. Costa Rica urges readers to share this alert with their contacts.
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