Limon bracing for 13-foot waves, experts issue alert

July 10^th, 2014 (InsideCostaRica.com) Limon is bracing for the impact of ocean waves today that could easily reach 4 meters (13 feet) caused by a low-pressure system in the Caribbean, and authorities are warning residents and visitors to take caution.

According to Omar Lizano of the Research Center for Marine Sciences and Limnology at the University of Costa Rica, there are five areas in Limon that could be especially hard hit, including popular tourist destinations like Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo.

“The waves could easily reach four meters (13 feet); the entire Caribbean coast will be affected, but there are places that are at special risk, such as Cieneguita, Puerto Vargas, Manzanillo, Punta Cocles, and Puerto Viejo,” Lizano said, adding that erosion problems in these areas could pose additional risks.

Lizano is warning residents and visitors alike to take extra precautions, especially at night when the tide is at its highest, and to not enter the water or sail in small boats.

Lizano also warned that the worst risk of serious flooding is in the areas of Puerto Viejo and Cieneguita.

Lizano said the conditions are expected to last until Monday, though the waves may gradually decrease in size.