Strong waves to hit Pacific shores of Costa Rica

The University of Costa Rica’s Ocean Sciences and Limnology Research Center (CIMAR), reported Monday that waves measuring up to nine feet would hit Pacific beaches from Tuesday through Thursday.

Omar Lizano, an expert with CIMAR, explained that the phenomenon is originated by the effects of a storm off the coast of New Zealand, which caused waves that could reach Costa Rican Pacific shores this week.

“Fortunately, the arrival will be during low tide, but there will be maximum periods of 20-22 seconds per wave, which is identified as very strong waves breaking on the beach,” Lizano explained.

CIMAR forecasts indicate that the sites most likely to experience direct impact are beaches in the Central and South Pacific, including Caldera, Playa Azul, Corralillo, Tárcoles, Palo Seco and Isla Damas.

The National Emergency Commission on Monday issued a green (preventive) alert and urged people in those areas, as well as tourists, to remain alert.