SAN JOSE - A bus crash caused by heavy rains in Costa Rica left at least six dead people on Saturday night, officials said.

Heavy rains across the country caused a landslide on the Cambronero route, in the west of the country 70 km (45 miles) from the capital San Jose, en route to the Pacific coast.

Firefighters and the country's Red Cross reported at least six people confirmed dead. Authorities were trying to find missing people, who the presidency said numbered at least 30.

Hundreds of families had to be evacuated due to the severe damage caused by the heavy rains, the statement added.

"This situation in which many families lose their belongings is really sad and worrying," said Costa Rica President Rodrigo Chaves.

(Reporting by Alvaro Murillo; Writing by Carolina Pulice; Editing by William Mallard)