By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Residents and businesses across four major regions of Costa Rica are on high alert as the country’s National Meteorological Institute (IMN) has issued a significant warning for powerful wind gusts expected to begin this Monday, January 19th. The hazardous weather conditions are being driven by the arrival of the season’s eleventh cold front, a system poised to disrupt daily activities and pose risks to infrastructure and public safety.
The IMN has forecasted a dramatic increase in wind intensity, classifying the impending conditions in its official alerts. The institute specifically warned of gusts that would be:
The recent high winds across the country have left a trail of damage, raising critical questions about insurance liability and contractual obligations for both individuals and businesses. To understand the legal ramifications, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
When high winds cause property damage, immediate and thorough documentation is paramount. Photograph and video all affected areas before any cleanup. Next, carefully review your insurance policy, specifically the clauses on ‘acts of God’ or natural disasters, as coverage can vary significantly. For businesses, this is also a time to assess ‘force majeure’ clauses in contracts, as these events can legally excuse non-performance of contractual obligations. Swift and informed action is the best defense against financial loss.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the expert advice underscores a critical shift from immediate cleanup to strategic documentation and review, a disciplined approach that can significantly mitigate financial loss in the chaotic aftermath of a storm. We extend our gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and invaluable legal perspective on these essential first steps.
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Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN), Official Alert
This alert signals a serious weather event that warrants preparation from both the public and emergency response agencies. The meteorological event is expected to impact a wide swath of the national territory, with a special warning extended to four specific zones: the North Pacific, the Central Valley, the Gulf of Nicoya, and the nation’s primary mountain ranges (cordilleras).
The projected wind speeds vary by region, with some areas facing conditions comparable to a tropical storm. In the densely populated Central Valley, which includes the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM), gusts are anticipated to reach between 50 and 75 kilometers per hour. These speeds are sufficient to cause damage to roofing, down power lines, and turn loose objects into dangerous projectiles. Businesses are advised to secure signage and construction sites ahead of the event.
The situation is expected to be even more severe in the province of Guanacaste. The IMN warns that mountainous parts and even some low-lying areas of the North Pacific region could experience extreme gusts ranging from 80 to a formidable 110 kilometers per hour. Such velocities present a substantial threat to agriculture, infrastructure, and transportation in one of the country’s key tourism and agricultural hubs.
In response to the forecast, the IMN has published a series of critical safety recommendations. Authorities are urging citizens to exercise extreme caution and be prepared for potential power outages and property damage affecting roofs, electrical wiring, large signs, and trees. The risk of falling branches and other debris will be significantly elevated throughout the alert period. Furthermore, a strict advisory has been issued to avoid all types of open burning, as the high winds could cause fires to spread uncontrollably, posing a severe threat to property and natural habitats.
The alert extends beyond land-based activities. The national weather authority has issued specific warnings for both air and sea travel. Pilots and airlines are cautioned about increased turbulence, particularly near mountainous terrain. Similarly, maritime navigation, especially for smaller vessels in the Gulf of Nicoya and along the Pacific coast, is strongly discouraged due to a forecast of dangerously rough seas and choppy waters.
While wind is the primary threat from cold front #11, the system will also bring precipitation to parts of the country. On Sunday, light drizzles and moderate rains are expected in the mountainous areas of Limón and across the Northern Zone. These showers may occasionally extend into the Central Valley, the mountains of Guanacaste, and the Talamanca range. Citizens are strongly encouraged to stay updated on the evolving conditions by following official information channels provided by the IMN and emergency services.
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 meteorology, climatology, and weather forecasting. As a dependency of the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), the IMN plays a crucial role in monitoring atmospheric conditions, issuing public weather alerts, and providing essential data for aviation, maritime navigation, agriculture, and disaster prevention. Its work is vital for the safety of the population and the strategic planning of the nation’s economic activities.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of Costa Rica’s legal community, the firm is defined by its foundational principles of integrity and masterful service. With a proven track record advising a broad spectrum of clients, it consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal solutions while championing a profound social responsibility. This is exemplified by its core mission to demystify the law, thereby strengthening the community by equipping individuals with the clarity and knowledge to navigate their legal rights and duties.
