Costa Rica Prepares for Severe El Niño Impact on Water, Power, and Tourism

Costa Rica is preparing for a severe El Niño phenomenon expected to impact the nation through late 2026 into early 2027. This climate event could strain water resources, increase electricity costs, and affect the tourism sector. In response, the Costa Rican government has initiated a national strategy with 247 actions and a budget of approximately $180 million to mitigate these effects (The Tico Times).

Regions considered high-risk for water stress and elevated temperatures (1-2°C above normal) include Guanacaste, the Pacific coast, and popular tourist destinations. These areas encompass cities such as Liberia, Nicoya, Jacó, Quepos, and other Central Pacific locations (The Tico Times). Travel and expatriate communities in these regions may experience service disruptions or increased pressure on hotels, restaurants, and attractions due to reduced river flows and slower aquifer recharge.

The government's strategy includes measures such as promoting water and energy conservation, implementing temporary thermal power solutions, monitoring water treatment, improving irrigation systems, developing new reservoirs, and providing tanker deliveries. Officials are also adjusting agricultural calendars. Dozens of locations are under monitoring for potential interventions, which may involve scheduled water restrictions, leak repairs, and the development of additional storage or new wells as needed (The Tico Times).