Abundant rains in August and first half of September, in the Huetar Norte and central parts of the country, and particularly in the Caribbean regions, have resulted in heavy flooding with consequent damage to village housing and rural infrastructure, and minor food crops. The heavy rains are expected to continue for the next few days. No detailed assessment of damage has been made available yet. Relief assistance from national institutions is being provided to the affected population. Harvesting of the 2002/03 first season crop, mostly maize, is underway and a low output is anticipated. Planting of the main bean crop has started and this area is expected to be close to the 2001/02 below-average level. Harvesting of the 2002 paddy crop is also underway and output for the year is provisionally estimated at an about-average 300 000 tonnes. Some increases are forecast in the main producing regions of Chorotega and Brunca, in the northwest and southwest of the country respectively. Production of rice is insufficient to meet domestic demand, and about 75 000 tonnes of imports are tentatively forecast in 2003 marketing year (January/December).