Costa Rica: More flooding likely in rainiest October in recent times

Event

Official data suggests that October will be the rainiest month of 2017, and one of the rainiest in recent years. The typically heavy rainy season has been exacerbated by a particularly active Atlantic hurricane season. Authorities are warning that these weeks of rain have left the ground saturated, increasing the risk of further flooding and landslides. Additional heavy rain is forecast nationwide on Saturday, October 14, and Sunday, October 15.

Context

Flooding is relatively common during the rainy season, which typically lasts from late May until early November in Costa Rica. On October 5, Tropical Storm Nate crossed over the country, causing two days of heavy rain, resulting in flooding, landslides, and at least 11 fatalities. Data from the national weather service (Instituto Meteorológico Nacional) indicates that the province of Guanacaste received the typically rainfall for the entire month in that 48-hour period. In the Central Pacific region, the two-day rainfall accounted for two-thirds of average monthly rain.

Advice

Individuals present in Costa Rica are advised to follow all instructions as issued by local authorities, monitor weather forecasts, and anticipate transportation disruptions and potentially hazardous conditions.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult. Finally, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, wear boots and try to avoid any contact with the water. All items having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and any foodstuffs discarded.