Rainfall intensified across multiple regions of Costa Rica on Saturday due to the combined influence of Tropical Wave No. 47 alongside atmospheric conditions—such as an upper-level trough—that significantly favor atmospheric instability.
“The downpours expected this weekend are due to several combined factors, including the active Intertropical Convergence Zone, the passage of Tropical Wave No. 47, and an upper-level trough that reinforces atmospheric instability,” warned the National Emergency Commission (CNE).
Widespread precipitation is currently affecting large portions of the national territory, with the heaviest concentration of downpours observed toward the eastern and northern sectors of the Central Valley. Additionally, persistent rainfall has been reported along critical transport corridors, including Route 32 and Guápiles.
Videos shared across social networks throughout the day depict rapidly rising and swollen rivers across several cantons.
Rainfall Accumulations Expected to Reach Up to 100 mm
According to reports from the National Meteorological Institute (IMN), Tropical Wave No. 47 is moving westward at an estimated speed of 28 km/h.
Precipitation is forecasted to continue through the remainder of the afternoon and into the evening. Downpours accompanied by active thunderstorm activity will remain concentrated primarily in:
- Northern Zone
- Western Caribbean Coast
- Northern Pacific Region
Estimated rainfall accumulations are projected between 30 mm and 60 mm within 6-hour windows, with isolated localized maximums reaching up to 90 mm to 100 mm. For the remainder of the country, maximum accumulations of up to 50 mm are anticipated over similar 6-hour intervals.
“The tropical wave will continue its movement toward the Pacific Ocean during the evening hours, progressively ending its influence over Costa Rica,” added the IMN.
High Soil Saturation and Landslide Precautions
Meteorological and emergency authorities emphasize that moderate to high soil saturation levels are present across several vulnerable regions:
- High Saturation Risk: South Pacific, Central Pacific mountain ranges, Northern Zone mountain regions, and adjacent valleys.
- Urban Saturation Risk: Drainage and sewer systems in major urban centers are at elevated risk of overflow.
⚠️ Official IMN & CNE Safety Recommendations
Authorities urge the population to adhere strictly to the following safety protocols:
- Flooding Awareness: Exercise extreme caution in flood-prone areas, near saturated streams, or near urban sewer systems prone to rapid overflow.
- Thunderstorm Safety: Seek immediate shelter upon detecting lightning or hearing thunder.
- Strong Wind Gusts: Stay clear of trees, power lines, and temporary structures. Isolated wind gusts near storm clouds may reach speeds of up to 80 km/h.
- Emergency Contact: Report any immediate threats, fallen trees, or river overflows directly to 9-1-1.
