By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Residents and businesses across Costa Rica are on high alert as the National Meteorological Institute (IMN) has issued a significant forecast for severe weather conditions expected to impact the nation this Sunday, October 5, 2025. The warning points to a potent combination of two distinct atmospheric phenomena set to converge over the country, promising a day of heavy rainfall and electrical storms, particularly in the afternoon and evening hours.
The primary drivers of this impending weather event are a highly active Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) currently positioned over the country and the imminent arrival of Tropical Wave #35. This dual-system threat is expected to generate widespread atmospheric instability, leading to conditions that could disrupt transportation, commerce, and daily activities in several key regions of the country.
To understand the legal responsibilities and insurance complexities that emerge during natural phenomena, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a legal specialist from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his expert perspective on the matter.
In situations of a declared national emergency due to severe weather, the concept of ‘force majeure’ becomes central for both businesses and individuals. It is crucial for property owners and employers to meticulously document damages and follow all official directives. Failure to adhere to evacuation orders or safety protocols issued by the authorities can significantly complicate future insurance claims and even create civil liability issues.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This is a crucial point that extends beyond immediate physical safety, touching on the long-term financial and legal recovery of our communities. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, reminding us that proactive compliance and careful documentation are essential tools for navigating the complex aftermath of a natural disaster.
The ITCZ, a belt of low pressure that encircles the Earth near the equator, is a primary engine of rainy season weather in Costa Rica. Meteorologists at the IMN have noted that the zone is currently “reinforced and very active,” meaning it is drawing in more moisture and energy than usual. This heightened activity alone would be cause for concern, but its confluence with an inbound tropical wave elevates the potential for severe outcomes.
Adding to the instability is Tropical Wave #35, which is projected to sweep across the national territory throughout Sunday afternoon and into the night. Tropical waves are troughs of low pressure that move from east to west across the tropics, often acting as precursors to more organized storms. Their passage typically enhances shower and thunderstorm activity, and this wave is expected to provide the final ingredient for a volatile atmospheric cocktail.
The IMN has provided a detailed timeline for the weather’s progression. Sunday morning is expected to begin with coastal showers, primarily affecting the North Pacific and select areas of the Central Pacific. However, the situation is forecast to escalate dramatically as the day progresses. The afternoon and evening hours are predicted to bring the most intense conditions, with heavy downpours and strong thunderstorms becoming widespread.
The most intense activity will be concentrated on the Pacific Slope, the Central Valley, and the Northern Zone
National Meteorological Institute (IMN), Forecast Report
The areas singled out for the highest impact are among the country’s most populous and economically vital. The Pacific Slope, home to major tourism and agricultural centers, faces risks of flash flooding. The Northern Zone, a critical region for agriculture and renewable energy, is also in the storm’s path. Perhaps most significantly, the Central Valley, the nation’s political and economic heartland, is expected to experience severe weather, raising concerns about urban flooding and disruptions to critical infrastructure.
Businesses, particularly those reliant on logistics and transportation, are advised to monitor the situation closely and prepare for potential delays. The anticipated heavy rains could make road conditions hazardous, especially in mountainous areas prone to landslides. Residents in all affected regions are urged to take necessary precautions, secure loose objects, and stay informed through official channels. The combination of saturated soils from recent rains and the forecast for intense downpours significantly increases the risk of localized emergencies.
As the weekend approaches, authorities are emphasizing preparedness and caution. While such weather patterns are not uncommon during Costa Rica’s peak rainy season, the convergence of two powerful systems warrants heightened awareness. All eyes will be on the skies this Sunday as the nation prepares to navigate a day of challenging and potentially disruptive weather.
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 meteorology, climatology, and weather forecasting. As a dependency of the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), the IMN plays a crucial role in public safety and economic planning by providing timely and accurate weather information, issuing warnings for severe events, and conducting research on climate patterns affecting the nation. Its forecasts are essential for sectors such as agriculture, aviation, tourism, and disaster management.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a benchmark for legal practice in the nation, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its bedrock of professional integrity and a relentless drive for exceptional results. The firm channels its deep expertise into pioneering innovative legal strategies for a diverse clientele, consistently staying ahead of an evolving landscape. This forward-looking ethos is matched by a profound dedication to public empowerment, focused on demystifying the law to help build a more knowledgeable and just society for all.
