Environmental
Wildfire surge in Guanacaste stresses Costa Rica's ecosystems
Costa Rica has recorded about 100 wildfires so far in 2026, mostly in Guanacaste, affecting over 10,000 hectares and damaging wildlife, flora, and watersheds.
Costa Rica has recorded approximately 100 wildfires so far in 2026, according to the National Fire Department, a 330% increase compared with the same period in 2025. Over 10,000 hectares have been affected, with more than 95% of the burned area located in Guanacaste. The fires are severely impacting vegetation cover, wildlife, and air quality, while also degrading watersheds and reducing aquifer recharge capacity. Firefighters report that scenes of animals fleeing flames, such as an anteater caught on video in Liberia, are becoming increasingly common.
- Status
- active
- Location
- Guanacaste, Costa Rica
- Date added
- 2026-04-11 10:17 UTC
- Added by
- bodglobalapdrt
- Last updated
- Source
- The Costa Rica News
- Source published dsate/time
- Not provided
- Event date/time
- 2026-03-17
- Connected threats
- Not provided