Costa Rica has joined the ranks of Latin American countries grappling with the effects of drought, announcing measures to ration electricity due to dwindling water levels in hydro-electric dams. The decision, announced on Thursday, comes as the country faces severe challenges posed by the El Nino weather phenomenon, which has depleted crucial water sources for hydro-generation.
The current El Nino has been described as the most complex in the country's history, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the drought. Rationing measures are set to commence on Monday and will remain in effect for an indefinite period, reflecting the severity of the situation.
With Costa Rica's heavy reliance on renewable energy sources, with approximately 99 percent of its electricity derived from such sources, the impact of the drought on hydro-electric plants has been significant. This drought is the most severe drought in the last 50 years, making it difficult to generate enough electricity for the country. This marks Costa Rica's first experience with electricity rationing since 2007, when a previous El Nino event similarly impacted water levels. However, the local electrical institute has assured Costa Rican citizens that essential services, including hospitals, basic utilities, and industry, would not be affected by the cuts.
The situation in Costa Rica mirrors challenges faced by neighboring countries, with Ecuador implementing electricity rationing due to water shortages for hydro-generation, and Colombia's capital, Bogota, implementing water rationing measures in recent weeks. Costa Rica's choice to limit non-renewable energy sources to only 1% of total production has jeopardized economic stability and national security. Only time will tell how much impact this drought will have on the nation of 5.2 million people.
The nation's massive tourism industry is likely to remain unaffected. Over 2 million tourists are expected to visit Costa Rica this year.
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