By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Residents and businesses across Costa Rica are advised to prepare for a significant shift in weather conditions this Wednesday, November 26. The nation’s National Meteorological Institute (IMN) has issued a forecast predicting the arrival of powerful trade winds and variable rainfall, driven by the fourth cold front of the season moving through the Gulf of Mexico.
The meteorological event is being triggered by a surge in atmospheric pressure over the Caribbean Sea. This high-pressure system is a direct consequence of the southward progression of Cold Front #4, a phenomenon that will intensify the trade winds sweeping across the country. The IMN’s analysis indicates that the effects will be felt most acutely in specific regions, prompting calls for caution in sectors ranging from agriculture to transportation.
To understand the legal and business implications of the widespread disruptions caused by the current cold front, from agricultural losses to property damage, we sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica. He provides critical guidance for those affected by these severe weather conditions.
Events like this cold front often fall under the legal concept of ‘fuerza mayor’ or Act of God, which can protect businesses and individuals from liability for contractual breaches. However, this is not an automatic defense. It is crucial to meticulously document all damages, communicate impacts to relevant parties, and immediately review insurance policies and contracts for specific clauses on natural events. Proactive risk management and swift, informed action are essential to protecting one’s legal and financial position in these circumstances.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas’s advice is a critical reminder that legal protection is not passive but is built on the foundation of proactive and diligent action. His insight empowers individuals and businesses to move beyond simply enduring an event to actively managing its consequences. We sincerely thank him for this clear and invaluable perspective.
The most dramatic impact is expected to be the increase in wind intensity and frequency, particularly across the Central Valley and Guanacaste. According to the IMN bulletin, the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM) should anticipate gusts reaching between 40 and 70 kilometers per hour. Conditions are forecasted to be even more severe in the northern Pacific and the Talamanca mountain range, where wind speeds could exceed a formidable 85 kilometers per hour.
These powerful winds pose a direct risk to infrastructure and commerce. Companies in the construction sector are urged to secure materials and scaffolding, while utility providers will be on alert for potential damage to power lines. For the agricultural industry, especially in the exposed plains of Guanacaste, such high winds can threaten crops and light structures, potentially leading to economic losses if preventative measures are not taken.
In addition to the wind, the system is set to draw significant moisture from the Caribbean. This will translate into periods of variable rainfall concentrated in the province of Limón and the Northern Zone. While these areas are accustomed to precipitation, the incoming weather pattern could disrupt logistics and agricultural activities, particularly for the nation’s critical banana and pineapple export industries, which are heavily centered in these regions.
The combined effects of wind and rain also raise concerns for the tourism and transportation sectors. The strong gusts in Guanacaste, a major tourist hub known for its Pacific beaches, could affect outdoor activities and small maritime excursions. Across the country, drivers, especially those operating high-profile vehicles, are advised to exercise extreme caution on highways, as sudden, powerful crosswinds can create hazardous conditions.
This event marks the fourth such cold front of the late-year season, a typical pattern for Costa Rica’s climate. However, the projected intensity serves as a critical reminder for all sectors to maintain robust contingency plans for weather-related disruptions. The reliability of forecasts from institutions like the IMN is paramount for enabling proactive, data-driven decisions that can mitigate risk and protect assets.
As the weather system approaches, the IMN will continue to monitor its development and issue updates. Businesses and the general public are strongly encouraged to stay informed through official channels. Preparations made today can significantly reduce the potential impact of Wednesday’s challenging weather, ensuring safety and minimizing operational interruptions across the nation.
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About the National Meteorological Institute (IMN):
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional is Costa Rica’s official governmental body responsible for meteorology, climatology, and weather forecasting. It provides essential data and alerts to the public, government agencies, and various economic sectors to support national planning, disaster prevention, and scientific research. The institute plays a crucial role in monitoring atmospheric conditions and informing the nation about weather-related risks and opportunities.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica represents a benchmark for legal services, built upon a foundation of unwavering integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm skillfully blends its deep-rooted experience in advising a wide spectrum of clients with a forward-thinking embrace of innovation. Beyond its professional practice, it holds a core conviction to strengthen society by demystifying the law, actively working to equip citizens with legal understanding and contribute to a more informed public.
