Rainy season is finally in full swing here in Guanacaste. The mountains are lush and you can no longer see over the grass! This year we are expected to have an intense rainy season and we are already off to a strong start.
The Rainy Season is Affected by La Niña
Due to the “La Niña” phenomenon, the National Meteorological Institute predicted an exceptional 2022 rainy season. At least 14 tropical cyclones are being anticipated for this season. Thankfully, here in the Playa Hermosa and Playas del Coco area we never receive the full effects of any tropical storms that may hit the Atlantic side of Costa Rica.
Even though we don’t have to worry about hurricanes, be prepared for larger pot holes, fallen trees or rocks in the road, and definitely don’t park under palm trees! Be cautious when driving during an aggressive rainfall and check for road closures if traveling to other parts of Costa Rica. Playa Hermosa and Playa del Coco even get some “surfing waves” during this time of year! You better be a good surfer or you could get hurt.
Use the Rainy Season to Check on Properties
For homeowners, there are plenty of important things to keep in mind when the rainy weather begins. Make sure your gutters are clean. If the gutters become clogged, rainwater will not drain and possibly cause damage to the interior or exterior of your home. Inspect the trees on your property, weak trees can snap or become uprooted from strong winds. Cover and protect your outdoor furniture and put away any items that can become blown away.
If you are not in Costa Rica, it is important to contact your property manager at the
beginning of the rainy season to double check that your property is ready for the season. Lot owners that have their properties listed for sale should have the grass cut at least once a month to keep the lot accessible.
For those interested in purchasing property, this is a great time of the year to see if there is any flooding, which in 14 + years living here I have never seen any. You will also be able to see if there are any roof leaks and how quickly water will drain away from the property. For those looking to put in some new landscaping, there is no better time than the rainy season! Plenty of rain will help establish new plants and promote root growth.
Surprising Differences in Rainfall
Oddly enough the difference in rain between Playa Hermosa and Coco can be quite drastic! It can be a sunny day in Playa Hermosa but down pouring in Playas del Coco! For many years I have been keeping a close eye on daily rainfall throughout the rainy season. It’s fascinating to see how much the rain varies!
For example on June 5, 2022 in Monte Seco (Playas del Coco) it rained 1.2 inches vs in Los Altos de Cacique (Playas del Coco) it rained only .6 inches. But then on June 6, 2022 in Monte Seco it rained .9 inches and in Cacique it rained 1.4 inches! For the month of May it rained a total of 18 inches in Monte Seco and only 11.5 inches in Los Altos de Cacique.
Even though it may be the rainy season, expect plenty of sunshine! Here in Guanacaste, you can still enjoy many sunny beach days. Thankfully the rain usually sticks to the mornings and nights with a possible shower midday every once in a while. This is my favorite time of the year! Come see for yourself the beauty of the green season.
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