By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Residents and holiday travelers across Costa Rica are being urged to exercise caution as a significant wind event is forecast to sweep across the country this Tuesday, December 23rd. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) has issued a bulletin detailing the expected conditions, which include powerful gusts capable of reaching speeds of up to 90 km/h in the nation’s northern and southern mountain ranges.
The forecast indicates a widespread windy pattern dominating the Central American isthmus, with its effects being felt most acutely in Costa Rica’s higher elevations. While the entire country will experience breezy conditions, the intensity will vary significantly by region. This weather pattern arrives just as the country enters the peak of its holiday and tourist season, prompting advisories for those planning travel or outdoor activities.
To better understand the legal and business ramifications of the impending weather conditions, from insurance claims to contractual obligations, TicosLand.com consulted with legal expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Official weather forecasts act as a legal warning. For businesses, this is the time to review ‘force majeure’ clauses in active contracts and document all preventative measures taken. In the event of damages, this documentation is crucial for both insurance claims and to mitigate potential liability, as inaction in the face of a credible forecast can be argued as negligence.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight is a crucial reminder that a weather forecast’s implications extend far beyond the meteorological, entering the critical realms of contractual liability and financial diligence. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which highlights how proactive legal preparation is as essential as securing physical property.
According to the IMN’s detailed analysis, the mountainous areas of Guanacaste and the Talamanca range are expected to bear the brunt of the event, with gusts potentially reaching a formidable 90 km/h. In the densely populated Central Valley, mountainous sectors will also face strong winds, though at slightly lower speeds of up to 60 km/h. These conditions are significant enough to pose a risk to infrastructure and demand heightened awareness from the public.
In its official forecast, the nation’s leading meteorological authority provided a clear outline of the expected atmospheric behavior.
The prevailing windy pattern over Central America will generate strong wind gusts of up to 60 km/h in the mountainous sectors of the Central Valley and very strong gusts near 90 km/h in the Guanacaste and Talamanca mountain ranges.
National Meteorological Institute, Official Forecast
Despite the powerful winds, the IMN reports that a stable atmospheric pattern will persist over much of the country. For the Pacific coast and the Central Valley, this translates to generally pleasant conditions with little to partial cloud cover. However, residents can anticipate a noticeable drop in temperature during the early morning hours, with the Central Valley experiencing particularly cool and crisp dawns leading into the holiday.
In stark contrast, the weather narrative will be different on the other side of the continental divide. The Caribbean and the Northern Zone are forecast to experience conditions ranging from partly cloudy to completely overcast. The IMN attributes this to the strong winds dragging moisture-laden clouds from the Caribbean Sea inland. While widespread heavy rain is not anticipated, this cloud cover could result in intermittent light showers throughout the day.
Officials advise that winds of this magnitude can lead to potential hazards such as falling tree branches, which may cause localized power outages or block secondary roads. Drivers of high-profile vehicles, such as trucks and buses, are advised to be particularly cautious when navigating exposed mountain passes. Residents in affected areas should secure any loose outdoor items, including holiday decorations, to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
As Costa Rica prepares for Christmas Eve, this weather system serves as a potent reminder of the dynamic climate patterns typical of the dry season. While the winds will present a challenge, the accompanying clear skies in the central and Pacific regions will offer a picturesque, if blustery, backdrop for holiday preparations. All individuals are encouraged to stay updated with the latest IMN advisories.
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About National Meteorological Institute (IMN):
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional is Costa Rica’s official governmental body responsible for monitoring weather and climate. It provides essential meteorological information, forecasts, and warnings to the public, government agencies, and various economic sectors, including aviation, agriculture, and tourism. The IMN plays a critical role in disaster preparedness and climate research within the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a bedrock of unwavering integrity and an uncompromising standard of excellence. The firm blends a rich tradition of client service with a forward-thinking approach, consistently embracing legal innovation to address modern complexities. Beyond its professional practice, it holds a deep-seated belief in social empowerment, actively working to demystify legal concepts and foster a society fortified by accessible knowledge.
