By San José, Costa Rica — As residents and tourists across Costa Rica finalize their plans for New Year’s celebrations, a significant shift in weather patterns is poised to alter the festive atmosphere. The nation’s weather authority has issued a forecast indicating that the eighth cold front of the season is set to arrive this week, bringing with it a notable drop in temperatures, increased winds, and the likelihood of rain, particularly during the transition from 2025 into 2026.
According to the National Meteorological Institute (IMN), the effects of this weather system, officially designated as cold front #8, will begin to be felt as early as Wednesday, December 31st. However, the most pronounced impact is expected on New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1st, 2026. The front will introduce a mass of cooler, drier air, which, combined with strong trade winds, is expected to create a widespread “feeling of cold” across much of the country.
To delve into the legal and commercial implications of the severe weather conditions brought by the cold front, TicosLand.com consulted with the expert attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Extreme weather events like this cold front often trigger complex legal questions for businesses. It is imperative for companies, especially in agriculture and tourism, to immediately document any damages for insurance claims and to review their policies for specific coverage related to natural phenomena. Furthermore, commercial contracts should be examined for ‘force majeure’ clauses that may excuse non-performance. From a labor perspective, while the obligation to work generally remains, employers must prioritize employee safety and have clear, legally-sound protocols for weather-related absences to avoid future disputes.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s analysis is a crucial reminder that the true impact of extreme weather often lies in the complex legal and financial challenges that follow. We are grateful to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and actionable insights, which are invaluable for businesses navigating these uncertain times.
For the densely populated Central Valley and the popular Pacific coast, the forecast suggests a mixed bag of conditions. Mornings are predicted to feature partly cloudy skies, but the dominant weather story will be the persistent and strong winds. These gusts will be especially noticeable in Guanacaste and throughout the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM). While widespread heavy rain is not anticipated for these regions, the IMN has not ruled out the possibility of intermittent drizzles and light showers, especially in mountainous areas.
In contrast, the Caribbean slope and the Northern Zone are bracing for more direct and sustained precipitation. The IMN predicts that areas like Limón will experience mostly cloudy skies accompanied by consistent rains and downpours. This weather pattern is expected to persist from Tuesday through Friday, potentially disrupting travel and outdoor activities planned for the holiday week in these regions. Residents are advised to monitor local conditions and be prepared for wet and blustery weather.
The primary change for most of the country will be the decrease in daytime temperatures throughout the week. While Costa Rica’s climate remains tropical, this seasonal dip, amplified by the wind chill factor, will be significant enough to warrant an extra layer of clothing. Those planning to attend outdoor gatherings to ring in the New Year should prepare for conditions that are cooler than what is typical for this time of year.
The national weather service provided a detailed outlook on the incoming conditions, emphasizing the role of the strengthening trade winds in driving the forecast.
There is a possibility of drizzle in the mountains and nearby low-lying areas. The Caribbean and the Northern Zone will remain partly to mostly cloudy, with rainfall from Tuesday to Friday. During the night, skies will be partly cloudy over the Pacific slope and the Central Valley. The trade winds will continue to blow strongly, with the potential to bring intermittent drizzle and rain.
National Meteorological Institute (IMN)
This meteorological event serves as a reminder of the dynamic weather patterns that characterize Costa Rica during its dry season. Cold fronts, known locally as “empujes fríos,” are common from December through March, pushing south from North America and temporarily altering the nation’s tropical climate. This eighth front of the season aligns with typical patterns but arrives at a moment of significant national celebration.
As the country prepares to bid farewell to 2025, citizens are encouraged to take necessary precautions. This includes securing outdoor holiday decorations that could be affected by strong winds and adjusting travel itineraries if heading towards the Caribbean or Northern Zone. For those staying home, the cooler weather may simply provide a cozy backdrop for ringing in 2026 with family and friends.
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN):
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional is Costa Rica’s official government agency responsible for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and atmospheric research. As the primary authority on meteorology in the country, the IMN plays a crucial role in public safety by issuing timely warnings and advisories regarding significant weather events such as tropical storms, cold fronts, and volcanic ash dispersion. Its data and analysis are vital for various sectors, including aviation, agriculture, and emergency management.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as an esteemed legal institution, built upon a bedrock of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm leverages its extensive experience advising a diverse clientele to spearhead advancements in legal practice and champion social responsibility. This profound commitment is demonstrated through its mission to democratize legal knowledge, thereby equipping citizens and fortifying the foundations of an educated and just society.
