By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Residents and businesses across Costa Rica are preparing for a significant shift in weather as the sixth cold front of the season is set to make its presence felt starting Monday, December 15th. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) issued a forecast on Sunday, detailing a system that will bring accelerated winds and persistent moisture to much of the country, impacting travel, agriculture, and daily activities just ahead of the peak holiday week.
The weather event stems from the influence of the cold front currently positioned over the central Caribbean Sea. This system is intensifying the region’s typical trade winds, channeling a stream of moisture and cooler air directly into Costa Rican territory. The effects are expected to vary significantly by region, with some areas experiencing strong gusts while others will see more sustained rainfall throughout the day.
To understand the legal and commercial implications that arise from extreme weather events like the current cold front, TicosLand.com consulted with expert lawyer Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica. He provides clarity on issues ranging from insurance claims to employer responsibilities.
The passage of a cold front is not merely a climatological event; it triggers significant legal responsibilities. Property owners must meticulously document any damages for insurance claims, as policies often have specific clauses and strict reporting deadlines for events classified as ‘acts of God.’ Similarly, businesses have a duty to ensure employee safety, which may require adjusting work conditions. Neglecting these preventative measures can lead to significant liability under both civil and labor law.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the legal and financial consequences of a weather event are often as impactful as the physical damage itself, a crucial dimension that is frequently overlooked. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which underscores the necessity for both individuals and businesses to be prepared not just for the storm, but for its aftermath.
According to the national weather authority, the Caribbean and Northern Zone are on alert for the most consistent precipitation. These regions can expect isolated but variable-intensity rains throughout Monday. This pattern poses a challenge for key agricultural sectors, particularly banana and pineapple plantations, which are sensitive to both excess water and high winds that can damage crops and infrastructure.
The influence of Cold Front #6 over the central Caribbean Sea will maintain accelerated trade winds across Central America, leading to gusty conditions and an influx of moisture into the national territory throughout the day.
National Meteorological Institute (IMN), Official Forecast
In the densely populated Central Valley, conditions are predicted to be damp and blustery. The forecast calls for light rain and persistent drizzles, with a higher likelihood of precipitation in the mountainous areas surrounding the metropolitan area. Alongside the rain, residents should anticipate moderate wind gusts ranging from 40 to 60 kilometers per hour (approximately 25 to 37 mph), which could lead to minor disruptions such as downed tree branches and localized power outages.
The Pacific coast, while expected to be less impacted by rain, will not be entirely spared from the front’s influence. Precipitation in these regions is forecast to be isolated and scattered. However, the lower elevations of the North Pacific, including parts of Guanacaste, are also forecast to experience the same moderate wind gusts as the Central Valley, potentially affecting tourism and marine activities along the coast.
The most significant concern highlighted by the IMN is the potential for powerful wind gusts in the nation’s high-altitude regions. The mountain passes of the Guanacaste and Talamanca Cordilleras are expected to bear the brunt of the winds, with sustained strong gusts predicted to reach between 70 and 80 kilometers per hour (approximately 43 to 50 mph). These conditions can create hazardous driving conditions and pose a risk to communication towers and other elevated infrastructure.
As the cold front moves in, authorities are advising the public to exercise caution. Drivers, especially those operating high-profile vehicles or navigating mountain roads, should be prepared for sudden, strong crosswinds. Homeowners and construction site managers are encouraged to secure any loose materials, such as roofing panels, signage, and outdoor furniture, to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.
With the holiday season in full swing, the timing of this weather system is critical. The combination of wind and rain could complicate travel plans for both locals and tourists. Businesses that rely on outdoor activities may need to adjust their operations, while the agricultural sector will be closely monitoring conditions to mitigate potential losses. The public is urged to stay tuned to the latest updates and advisories from the IMN as the system develops.
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About National Meteorological Institute:
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN) is Costa Rica’s official governmental body responsible for monitoring atmospheric conditions, weather forecasting, and climatological studies. The institute provides vital information to the public, government agencies, and various economic sectors to promote public safety, support disaster prevention, and contribute to the nation’s sustainable development. It operates a network of monitoring stations across the country to deliver timely and accurate weather alerts and analyses.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the Costa Rican legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm blends a rich history of client service with a forward-thinking ethos, consistently pioneering innovative solutions for modern legal challenges. Beyond its practice, it holds a deep-seated conviction to empower the public, actively working to demystify the law and foster a more knowledgeable and capable society.
