The Costa Rican Meteorological Institute (IMN) is constantly monitoring a possible low pressure system that is forming in Panama and that could affect Costa Rica.

“The most recent meteorological analysis show that this upcoming week there is a strong possibility of a low pressure system forming in the southwest of the Caribbean Sea (North of Panama), that would increase considerably the amount of rain in the Pacific. Due to this, the IMN is paying close attention to these possible meteorological scenario, monitoring the atmospheric conditions and any changes, this because of the vulnerability of the regions affected by Tropical Storm Nate.

The last analysis show that the rainfall would increase significantly starting Tuesday, October 24 specially in the South and Central Pacific, accumulating amount of 80 to 180 mm in 24 hour periods, however, it can be more than this. The values will depend, among other factors, on the movement and intensification of the low pressure system. IMN recommends to stay alert for official meteorological announcements”, states the release

Even though heavy rains are normal during the month of October in Costa Rica, the recent destruction caused by Nate in a large portion of the country and the saturation of the ground cause alarm for the authorities and affected communities.

Sigifredo Pérez, chief of the Operations Unit of the National Emergency Commission, confirmed that they are monitoring through the Municipal Emergency Committees all areas in vulnerability and those that could be affected by the rain.

“We are maintaining communication with the IMN personnel regarding the evolution of this low pressure system, we will take the necessary operational actions depending on the information provided by the IMN”, assured Pérez.