By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Costa Rica is set to experience a noticeable shift in its weather patterns this Wednesday, January 21, as the influence of Cold Front #11 begins to wane, according to the latest forecast from the National Meteorological Institute (IMN). While the front is losing strength, its lingering effects will continue to shape conditions across the country, bringing accelerated trade winds and pockets of precipitation that demand attention from key economic sectors like agriculture, tourism, and logistics.
The most significant impact will continue to be the persistent, gusty winds. The IMN projects that the Central Valley, the nation’s economic and demographic heartland, will experience wind speeds ranging from 40 to 65 km/h. These conditions, while not extreme, can affect construction projects, disrupt transportation schedules, and pose a challenge for businesses relying on outdoor operations. Residents are advised to secure loose items and exercise caution.
Beyond planning our daily activities, a weather forecast carries significant legal and business implications. To delve into these aspects, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who provided his analysis on how to act preventively.
A weather forecast is more than a simple weather report; from a legal standpoint, it’s a critical preventative notice. For businesses, it can trigger the need to activate contingency plans and review ‘force majeure’ clauses in their contracts. For individuals, it’s the moment to verify the scope of their insurance policies for homes and vehicles, as claims arising from predictable events can sometimes lead to complex disputes if prior precautions were not taken.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This analysis is a crucial reminder that a weather forecast is not just a daily curiosity but a significant call to action, demanding both personal and corporate diligence. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this vital legal clarity on a topic that impacts us all.
Meanwhile, the intensity will be even greater in the North Pacific and along the country’s main mountain ranges. These areas are forecasted to bear the brunt of the winds, with powerful gusts expected to reach between 50 and 85 km/h. This poses a direct challenge to the tourism industry in Guanacaste, potentially affecting marine activities and adventure tours. Furthermore, agricultural operations in these regions must remain vigilant to prevent wind damage to crops and infrastructure.
On the precipitation front, the Caribbean slope and the Northern Zone will see the highest probability of rain, primarily during the first half of the day. The IMN forecasts scattered showers as moisture content remains elevated. However, conditions are expected to improve significantly into the afternoon and evening, with cloud cover breaking and the chance of rain diminishing. This brief window of rain is a critical variable for the region’s vast banana and pineapple plantations.
In contrast, the weather dynamics on the Pacific coast will differ. The Central Pacific and the mountainous areas of the South Pacific are predicted to see partly cloudy skies throughout the day. The primary weather event for these regions will be the development of isolated afternoon showers and thunderstorms, a typical pattern for the area. This localized rainfall is unlikely to cause widespread disruption but could temporarily affect travel and outdoor activities.
The phenomenon of an “empuje frío,” or cold front, in Costa Rica is less about a drop in temperature and more about the atmospheric pressure changes it triggers. These systems, originating in North America, push high-pressure air masses southward, which in turn accelerates the northeasterly trade winds that sweep across the Central American isthmus. This process is responsible for the strong gusts and the transportation of moisture from the Caribbean Sea inland.
From a business perspective, this forecast presents a mixed bag of opportunities and challenges. The accelerated winds are a boon for the country’s growing renewable energy sector, as wind farms in Guanacaste and the Central Valley will operate at high capacity. Conversely, logistics and supply chain managers must account for potential delays, especially for maritime shipping on the Caribbean side and ground transport in high-wind areas. The agricultural sector must balance the benefits of morning showers against the risks of wind damage.
As Cold Front #11 dissipates, the country can anticipate a gradual return to more characteristic dry season conditions. However, the IMN’s report serves as a reminder that even a weakening weather system can have a tangible impact on daily life and commerce. Businesses and residents are encouraged to stay informed of the latest meteorological updates and maintain a state of preparedness for the lingering strong winds and scattered showers expected on Wednesday.
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About Instituto Meteorológico Nacional:
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN) is Costa Rica’s official governmental agency responsible for meteorology, climatology, and hydrometeorology. It is tasked with monitoring atmospheric conditions, producing weather forecasts, and issuing warnings to protect life and property. The IMN plays a crucial role in providing essential data for key sectors such as agriculture, aviation, energy, and disaster risk management across the nation.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is built upon a bedrock of integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. The firm channels its rich history of serving a diverse clientele into pioneering innovative legal solutions and forward-thinking strategies. This commitment to progress extends to its core mission of empowering the community by actively working to make legal concepts understandable, thereby fostering a more knowledgeable and capable society.
