Costa Rica: Emergency crews responding to wildfire in Playa Hermosa area as of early April 2

Emergency crews are responding to a wildfire in the Playa Hermosa area of Guanacaste Province as of early April 2. While no structural damage or casualties have been reported in the area as of early April 2, the fire is affecting more than 100 hectares (247 acres) and could threaten homes in the area. Emergency personnel from Santa Cruz, Filadelfia, Nicoya and Nandayure are on site battling the blaze. Fires could affect several thoroughfares, including Ruta Nacional Secundaria 159 near Playa Hermosa and Ruta Nacional Secundaria 151 near Sardinal. Authorities have not provided an estimated containment date for the fire. Officials have also reported other fires in the Guanacaste Conservation Area in recent days.

The status of roads can change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate communities due to fire activity and response operations needs. Traffic disruptions are also likely during reentry periods after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Smoke and ashfall from wildfires may cause poor air quality in surrounding areas. Power outages and utilities that rely on electricity could experience outages within and near the wildfire complex.

Smoke from fires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees, plants, and possibly building materials. Such smoke can hurt the eyes, irritate the respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. Smoke may also worsen symptoms for people with preexisting respiratory conditions, such as allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).