In Costa Rica, officials recommended declaring a state of emergency in nine cantons
On August 20, 2026, Costa Rica’s National Emergency Commission (CNE) recommended declaring a nationwide state of emergency due to the effects of heavy rains in nine cantons, according to The Rio Times.
The recommendation applies to the cantons of Guatuso, Turrialba, Sarapiquí, Limón, Pocosi, Siqueirres, Talamanca, Matina, and Guásimo. Flooding occurred in the affected areas; rivers and streams overflowed their banks; and roads and ground transportation were damaged. Some communities were cut off due to damaged infrastructure.
Due to the severe weather, 1,314 people were staying in 23 temporary shelters. Earlier, 90 people were evacuated from Valle de la Estrella, Turrialba, and Matina.
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An orange alert was in effect on the country’s Caribbean slope and in the northern region. A yellow alert was in effect in the Central Valley, as well as in the central and southern parts of the Pacific coast.
The heavy rainfall is linked to a series of tropical waves, specifically Tropical Wave No. 29. The CNE recommended declaring a state of emergency, but the signed executive decree—including its number, date, and budget—had not been published at that time. Once such a decree is signed, the state of emergency could unlock access to official funding and aid.
