Public Safety & Health: Costa Rica hospitals logged nearly 10,000 gunshot emergencies since 2020, with 9,970 firearm-related cases recorded through July 31, 2026—showing the security crisis is hitting survivors, surgeries, and long-term care, not just homicide numbers. Weather Watch: Tropical Wave #43 is keeping conditions unstable this Sunday, with heavy rain, thunderstorms, and flood/landslide risks across vulnerable areas. Cybersecurity: Costa Rica’s cyber authority is investigating a dark-web post claiming tens of millions of personal records, including ID photos and court files, but officials say they can’t yet confirm a real breach or the data’s authenticity. Independence Day Tensions: In Cartago’s 205th independence torch events, police blockades reportedly barred some lantern parade participants, while merchants and attendees raised concerns about who was allowed into the official area. Energy & Costs: RECOPE says fuel prices will jump in October, citing international market pressures and regional disruptions. Economy & Tech: Banco de Costa Rica rolled out 421 next-gen contactless ATMs nationwide, and Juan Santamaría Airport began using biometric eGates to speed up immigration checks. Crime & Cross-Border Links: The OIJ warns Mexican cartels are reshaping operations in Costa Rica through subcontracting networks, while a Nicaraguan opposition figure, Reinaldo Picado Miranda, was shot in San José. Business/Travel: A new Costa Rica Report 2026 highlights the country’s MedTech boom and investment push, while a Jaco travel guide launches to help visitors plan trips.