In the past 24 hours, Costa Rica has reported 286 flooding incidents, impacting 11 routes across the country. On Saturday, the National Emergency Commission (CNE) declared an orange alert for most of the country, excluding the southern Caribbean, as persistent rains and saturated soils increase the risks of landslides and further flooding.
President Rodrigo Chaves met with the Emergency Operations Center to discuss response measures in light of ongoing rainfall exacerbated by Hurricane Rafael and the nearby Intertropical Convergence Zone. “Our country is enduring extreme rain, especially in regions like Guanacaste, which has suffered significant damage and tragic loss of life,” Chaves stated in a press briefing. Authorities urged citizens to avoid mountainous areas, where the heaviest rains have been concentrated.
“Do not risk your life, compatriot; do not risk the lives of your family. Use 911 responsibly, and avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary,” Chaves emphasized. As part of the response, the CNE has mobilized 800 people from high-risk areas to safe, temporary shelters, with 18 centers currently providing refuge.
For those wishing to help affected communities, donations are being collected to support flooded areas like Filadelfia, Santa Cruz, and others. The drop-off point for donations is Chop House inside Automercado (view map here). Items most in need include:
- Children’s diapers
- Senior adult diapers
- Wet wipes
- Toilet paper
- Deodorants
- Toothbrushes and toothpaste
- Hand soap
- Unsweetened and sweet cookies
- Tuna
- Powdered milk
- Maruchán noodles
- Dog/cat food
- Non-perishable foods that do not require refrigeration or cooking.
- Clothes
- Water
- Medicines
- Toilet Paper
- Feminine Hygine products
- etc.
Thank you to everyone able to support these relief efforts during this challenging times.