NOTE FROM U.S. EMBASSY in Costa Rica - August 7, 2012

The U.S. Embassy in San Jose informs U.S. citizens that Costa Rica often 
experiences sudden and very heavy rain storms, primarily during the months of 
May through November.

In the aftermath of some previous storms, U.S. citizens traveling abroad 
encountered uncomfortable and  sometimes dangerous conditions that lasted for 
several days while they waited for transportation back to the United States.  
Occasionally,  U.S. citizens have been forced to delay travel due to 
infrastructure damage and limited flight availability.  Roads were also washed 
out or obstructed by debris, adversely affecting access to airports and land 
routes out of affected areas.  In many places, storms often are accompanied by 
damaging high tides and flooding.  People living close to the ocean or other 
bodies of water, may be at higher risk of flooding.  Landslides and mudslides 
also are serious concerns during heavy rains.

Flights into and out of airports may be suspended during storms.  Travelers 
should contact airlines for the latest updates.  The storms could similarly 
affect access to cruise ships.  Citizens should monitor local and international 
media reports, and follow the instructions of local emergency officials.  In 
some areas, adequate shelter from a severe hurricane may not be available to all 
who may choose to stay.  Visitors should review and follow their hotel or cruise 
ship evacuation plans.  U.S. citizens who plan to stay in their homes or hotels 
during storms should make preparations in the event that communications, power, 
and transportation systems are affected.

U.S. citizens should carry their travel documents at all times (i.e. U.S. 
Passport, Birth Certificate, picture ID's, etc.) or secure them in a safe, 
waterproof location.  We also suggest that U.S. citizens contact friends and 
family in the United States with updates about their whereabouts.

For the most-up-to-date information on Tropical Storms, please visit The 
National Hurricane Center's website at http://nhc.noaa.gov

Further information on hurricanes and hurricane preparedness is available on the 
State Department's website: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis_pa_tw_2915.html

Also visit Consular Affairs' website on "Natural Disasters" at the following 
link:
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/emergencies/emergencies_1207.html