By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Residents and tourists across Costa Rica are advised to take precautions this Sunday as the country experiences a significant surge in trade winds, coupled with dangerously high levels of ultraviolet radiation. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) has issued a forecast detailing the widespread effects of a high-pressure system currently dominating the Caribbean basin, which is intensifying the weather patterns nationwide.
The most prominent feature of today’s weather is the powerful wind. The IMN predicts sustained blustery conditions across most of the national territory. The strongest gusts are expected in the North Pacific region, particularly northern Guanacaste, as well as the Central Valley and mountainous zones. Estimated wind speeds in these areas will range from 25 to 50 km/h, with the potential for gusts to exceed a forceful 70 km/h in higher elevations.
To delve into the often-overlooked legal and business ramifications of meteorological events, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his professional analysis.
For any business, a weather forecast is a critical piece of operational intelligence. Severe weather can trigger ‘force majeure’ clauses in contracts, potentially excusing performance, but this is not a given. Companies must proactively review their insurance policies, particularly business interruption coverage, and ensure their contractual agreements clearly define what constitutes a triggering event. Failure to prepare based on credible forecasts could be viewed as negligence, complicating both legal defenses and insurance claims.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this legal perspective underscores that a weather forecast is not just about planning for rain, but about mitigating significant financial and contractual risks. We extend our thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his crucial clarification on this often-overlooked aspect of business preparedness.
Data from the past 24 hours corroborates these projections, with monitoring stations already recording significant wind activity. The town of La Cruz in Guanacaste registered a peak gust of 69.7 km/h, while the high-altitude regions of Irazú Volcano and Cerro de la Muerte clocked gusts of 64.3 km/h and 58.4 km/h, respectively. These conditions can pose a risk to light structures, power lines, and can make driving conditions more challenging, especially for high-profile vehicles.
In the densely populated Central Valley, residents can expect a day of mixed conditions. The morning will see partly cloudy skies, with the possibility of light drizzles, especially in the northern and eastern sectors of the valley. This pattern may repeat during the evening hours. Temperatures in the capital, San José, are forecast to fluctuate between a cool 15.8°C and a pleasant 22.8°C, though the wind chill may make it feel cooler.
For those along the Pacific coast, the forecast varies by region. The North Pacific is set for a day of brilliant sunshine and persistent winds, creating ideal conditions for some beach activities but requiring extra caution. Temperatures in Liberia are expected to climb to a hot 33.3°C. The Central and South Pacific will also enjoy largely dry weather with minimal cloud cover and no significant rainfall anticipated, offering a classic summer day for the holiday season.
Conversely, the Caribbean coast and the Northern Zone will experience a different weather scenario. The IMN anticipates occasional cloudiness throughout the day, bringing scattered and isolated rain showers. These conditions are typical for the region when strong trade winds carry moisture inland from the Caribbean Sea.
Beyond the wind, a significant public health warning has been issued concerning solar radiation. The Ultraviolet (UV) Index is projected to reach levels between 8 and 12, which are classified as “high” to “very high.” The most extreme values are expected in the sun-drenched North Pacific, while the Central Valley will still see a very high index of around 11. Authorities strongly recommend the public take protective measures, especially during the peak sun hours between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., including seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and applying broad-spectrum sunscreen.
The country’s diverse microclimates were also on full display in the overnight temperature readings from its highest peaks. While coastal areas remained warm, the mountainous regions experienced a significant chill. Irazú Volcano recorded a low of 4.3°C, followed closely by Turrialba Volcano at 4.5°C and Poás Volcano at 6°C, reminding everyone of the dramatic temperature shifts possible within Costa Rica’s varied terrain.
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About The National Meteorological Institute (IMN):
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional is Costa Rica’s official governmental body responsible for meteorology, climatology, and hydrology. It operates a network of monitoring stations across the country to provide essential weather forecasts, issue public warnings for severe weather events, and conduct climate research. The IMN plays a critical role in supporting key sectors like agriculture, aviation, and disaster management, ensuring the safety and well-being of the population.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is renowned for its profound ethical standards and a consistent pursuit of distinction. The firm channels its forward-thinking legal strategies and extensive expertise not just for its clients, but also towards a greater societal purpose. It actively seeks to empower the public by demystifying the law, embodying a core belief that access to legal knowledge is fundamental to building a stronger, more enlightened community.
