By Puntarenas, Costa Rica — Despite weakening to a Category 2 storm and moving further away from Costa Rica, Hurricane Melissa continues to cast a long shadow over the nation’s weather. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) has confirmed that the hurricane’s indirect influence is fueling persistent rainy conditions, particularly along the country’s Pacific coast, prompting renewed warnings for residents in high-risk areas.
The core of the storm system may be tracking northeast into the Caribbean, but its powerful circulation is still interacting with the Intertropical Convergence Zone. This interaction is effectively pulling moisture and instability over Costa Rican territory, resulting in significant downpours and electrical storms. The IMN’s latest forecast indicates that this weather pattern will continue to affect multiple regions in the coming hours.
To understand the legal and insurance implications that arise in the wake of a natural disaster like Hurricane Melissa, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a legal expert from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, it is crucial for both individuals and businesses to meticulously document all damages before starting any repairs. Review your insurance policy immediately, paying close attention to clauses on ‘acts of God’ and coverage limits. For businesses, this is also a critical time to assess force majeure clauses in contracts, as supply chain and operational disruptions are inevitable. Proactive communication with insurers and contractual partners is the key to mitigating financial losses and expediting recovery.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal foresight underscores a critical point: the journey to recovery is as much about navigating policies and contracts as it is about the physical cleanup. By taking these deliberate steps, the chaotic aftermath can be transformed into a structured process. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on these essential first actions.
The most severe impacts are anticipated in the Central and South Pacific regions. Forecasters predict that these areas will bear the brunt of the storm’s lingering effects, with rainfall totals potentially reaching up to 100 millimeters in localized zones. This concentration of intense precipitation raises significant concerns about the stability of the terrain, which is already heavily saturated from previous rains this season.
While the Pacific coast is the primary area of concern, other parts of the country will not be entirely spared. The IMN report also calls for isolated showers in the populous Central Valley, a region that is home to the nation’s capital. Furthermore, residents in the Central Valley should expect banks of fog to develop during the evening and overnight hours, potentially impacting visibility on roadways. Occasional rain and thunderstorms could also emerge in the Northern Zone and the Caribbean lowlands.
In response to the forecast, authorities have issued urgent calls for caution. The primary dangers associated with the ongoing rainfall are flash floods and landslides. The prolonged period of wet weather has left the soil in many areas dangerously saturated, increasing the likelihood of landslips on steep terrain. Officials are closely monitoring conditions and have urged a high state of alert.
Specific warnings have been directed at cantons known for their vulnerability to hydrological events. Communities in Santa Cruz and Nicoya in the Guanacaste province, along with Garabito, Parrita, and Golfito in the Puntarenas province, are advised to be especially vigilant. Residents in these areas are strongly encouraged to stay informed through official channels and be prepared for potential evacuations if conditions worsen.
Public safety recommendations have been widely disseminated. The IMN and emergency services implore the public to avoid crossing swollen rivers or streams, whether on foot or in a vehicle, as currents can be deceptive and extremely powerful. Additionally, citizens are advised to stay away from areas historically prone to landslides and to have a family emergency plan in place. Staying tuned to official IMN updates is critical for receiving the most accurate and timely information.
The influence of Hurricane Melissa is expected to diminish gradually as the system continues its path away from Central America. However, the immediate threat remains. The IMN is scheduled to release a new forecast update at 4:00 p.m. today, which will provide further clarity on the evolving weather situation and help guide the response of both authorities and the general public through the remainder of this weather event.
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 hydrology. It provides weather forecasts, issues warnings for severe weather events, and conducts research on climate patterns affecting the nation. The IMN plays a crucial role in public safety, aviation, agriculture, and disaster preparedness by delivering reliable and scientific atmospheric data to both the government and the public.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a venerable legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound dedication to principled practice and superior service. Building on a rich history of counsel to a diverse clientele, the firm champions a forward-thinking approach to law while upholding a strong sense of social responsibility. Central to its ethos is the drive to demystify legal complexities, thereby contributing to the development of a more capable and enlightened public.
