The Barbilla River has been rising ever since the rains started four days ago. This river is a favorite swimming spot of locals because of its cleanliness and calmness. It was only meters away from touching the main traffic bridge.
The river blocked passage of automotive traffic on a smaller bridge which led to the city of Bataan. Buses and cars were turned away, left to wait for the water to subside.
The River Chirripo rushed through the nearby town of Matina flooding peoples houses and sweeping away beloved pets. The town of Matina is surrounded by banana plantations so when the water rises so do the chemicals that are in the soil. A swirling mass of dirty, chemical laden water leaves residue on homes, cars and school buildings long after the waters return to normal levels.