U.S. Embassy issues weather alert over heavy rainfall in Costa Rica

The U.S. Embassy in Costa Rica has issued a weather alert due to forecasts of heavy rains through Friday, August 16.

Read the alert in its entirety below:

The United States National Weather Service has identified the potential for heavy rainfall for Panama, Costa Rica and Nicaragua from early Wednesday, August 14, through Friday, August 16.  Rain accumulation of 1-3 inches/day with maximum of 4-6 inches/day is forecasted.  The highest risk is for western Panama and Costa Rica, where the mountains will play a role in enhancing rainfall rates, which can see rainfall near 12 inches.

Costa Rica’s National Emergency Commission (CNE) also advised residents to take precautions. Remain vigilant of rising rivers and seek shelter in response to strong winds or thunderstorms.

For the latest information, the U.S. Embassy recommends visiting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website. The Costa Rican National Meteorological Institute’s website also provides updates in Spanish and English.