Continuous torrential rainfall has hit Costa Rica between 1 – 12 November. According to the National Meteorological Institute this is related to the indirect influence of Hurricane Rafael. Heavy rainfall is the result of a mix of meteorological factors, including tropical depressions over the Caribbean and the Madden-Julian Oscillation. These conditions were caused by an increase in the flow of the western trade wind associated with the influence of a trough in the troposphere. Which then generated a series of incidents related to flooding and devastation in different locations along the North, Central, and South Pacific slopes.

As of November 13, more than 1,100 incidents related to floods, landslides, mudflows, sinkholes, among others, have been recorded, which have affected 41 districts and more than 467 communities reported by the Municipal Emergency Committees. 3 deaths and 5 disappearances have been reported and nearly 1,450 people have been displaced to 35 temporary shelters. In addition, soil saturation and overflowing rivers have blocked essential routes and affected access to several communities, increasing the risk of additional disasters.

Costa Rica's government and emergency teams are actively working to minimize the impact of this storm, the public were warned to remain vigilant, stay informed and prepare their homes for potential flooding. 

On 16 November, storm Sara brought more rainfall over Costa Rica. The province of Guanacaste was affected the most, with flooding of crops and homes. Roads and local airports were closed. In southern Costa Rica, near the Panamanian border, overflowed rivers left entire communities isolated. Three major routes in the country have been impacted by landslides.