National Emergency Commission raises alert due to heavy rains, waves in Caribbean

President Carlos Alvarado and the National Emergency Commission (CNE) are monitoring weather conditions in Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, a Casa Presidencial press release said.

The news came Sunday afternoon as heavy rains and wind forced at least 50 people to evacuate their homes as a precautionary measure.

The biggest affectations were in the Limón cantons of Pococí, Siquirres, Talamanca, Matina and Limón, according to Casa Presidencial.

“During [Saturday] night, the overflow of the Chirripó, Sixaola, Telire, Reventazón, Banano and Barbilla rivers was reported,” said Alexander Solís, head of the National Emergency Commission.

Due to the strong ocean swells, visitors were not allowed to enter the water at Cahuita National Park during parts of Sunday.

“The personnel of the National Parks is organized to give attention and maintain the conditions of access and security. We urge people not to approach the sea to see the wave event and stay safe in safe places,” Solís said.

Landslides caused closures of Route 32, which connects San José and Limón, on Monday morning, authorities said.

Solís and the CNE urged the population to remain alert and vigilant and to inform themselves through official channels.