Costa Rica issues weather advisory in response to heavy rainfall

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Published on Saturday, December 28, 2024
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

The National Emergency Commission (CNE) has declared a Green Weather Alert in response to the impact of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ICZ) currently crossing over Costa Rica.

The Weather Institute reports that the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ICZ) is currently traversing from the Pacific Coast, affecting the provinces of Guanacaste and Puntarenas, to the Caribbean Coast, including Limón Province, on Saturday.

The ICZ, commonly referred to as the "doldrums of the sea," forms where the northeast and southeast trade winds meet. This convergence creates conditions characterized by reduced wind activity and an increased likelihood of thunderstorms.

Meteorologists forecast that the ICZ will influence weather conditions across the entire country on Sunday, December 29. The effects are expected to persist for approximately 24 hours, extending into Monday, December 30. Improvements in weather patterns are anticipated by Tuesday, December 31.

Showers along the Pacific Coast, including the provinces of Guanacaste and Puntarenas, are expected to range between 20 and 60 mm. In the central provinces of San José, Alajuela, Heredia, and Cartago, rainfall may persist with accumulations between 10 and 30 mm. Meanwhile, precipitation along the Caribbean Coast, particularly in Limón Province, is projected to range from 30 to 60 mm.

A Green Weather warning has been issued across Costa Rica, signaling the need for heightened preparedness as ICZ continues to affect the region. This initial level of alert instructs emergency committees to closely monitor the progression of the natural phenomenon and remain ready to respond to potential emergencies. Authorities emphasize that the elevated likelihood of adverse weather impacts necessitates ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard communities.

As of Saturday, authorities have not issued any Yellow, Orange, or Red alert warnings in response to the current weather conditions.

Experts recommend taking precautionary actions owing to the expected severe rains, such as:

Pilots should be more cautious while flying small aircraft over mountainous regions.

Avoid controlled burning since strong winds can cause a small fire to spread quickly.

Stay alert since severe winds can damage roofs, power wires, signs or trees.

During downpours, people should avoid rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water.

Boat captains are advised to take additional measures when sailing along the Pacific or Caribbean coasts due to the risk of large waves.

People living in mountain areas should take preventive measures against landslides or material falling from the hills.

Drivers must increase precautions for heavy rain and fog.

Take precautionary measures in thunderstorms, such as taking refuge in a safe place and avoiding direct use of electronic equipment, electrical appliances or power lines.

Stay alert about vulnerable areas to flooding due to sewer saturation or river overflow.

In the possibility of a landslide, do not walk on the debris, stay away from affected areas and do not return home until authorities verify that it is a safe place.

Stay informed about the alerts issued by authorities.

Call 911 to report any possible flooding, fallen trees or landslides.

A.M. Costa Rica encourages readers to share this weather warning with their communities.

The National Institute of Meteorology, or Weather Institute, is the state-owned agency that provides weather forecasts, warnings of hazardous weather, and other weather-related products to organizations and the public for protection, safety, and general information.

The National Emergency Commission (CNE) works with people and emergency professionals to strengthen, sustain, and enhance the county's ability to plan for, defend against, respond to, recover from, and reduce any potential hazards.

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What have you heard about your community's efforts to prevent emergencies caused by heavy rainfall? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com