By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Residents across Costa Rica are advised to prepare for a significant shift in weather conditions as the eleventh cold front of the season is set to sweep across the nation. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) issued a forecast on Saturday, warning that the system will make its presence felt starting Sunday, January 18, bringing a potent combination of strong winds, cooler temperatures, and scattered rainfall that will persist into the early days of the upcoming week.
The primary characteristic of this weather event will be a dramatic intensification of the country’s typical trade winds. According to the IMN’s detailed analysis, the most powerful gusts are expected during the afternoon and evening hours on both Sunday and Monday. This pattern poses a significant risk, particularly in mountainous regions and the Central Valley, where wind speeds can be amplified by local topography. The advisory underscores the need for heightened awareness and precautionary measures among the general public.
To better understand the legal and insurance implications for property and businesses affected by the recent weather, we sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Events like this cold front often trigger ‘force majeure’ or ‘act of God’ clauses in both insurance policies and commercial contracts. For homeowners and business owners, it is critical to immediately and thoroughly document any damage with dated photos and videos before making repairs. Review your insurance policy’s specific coverage for atmospheric phenomena, as many contain exclusions or specific notification deadlines that, if missed, can jeopardize a valid claim.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
The legal and financial aftermath of a cold front can often be as impactful as the storm itself, making diligent preparation essential. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective, which highlights the critical importance of immediate documentation and a clear understanding of one’s insurance and contractual obligations.
For those living in the densely populated Central Valley, the most noticeable change will be a distinct drop in temperature. The northerly winds ushered in by the cold front will bring a decidedly cool, crisp air mass, creating conditions that will feel much colder than the seasonal average. This temperature dip is expected to last through the weekend and into the start of the new work week, prompting residents to prepare for chilly mornings and evenings.
Meanwhile, the Caribbean slope and the Northern Zone are forecast to bear the brunt of the system’s precipitation. The influx of moisture, combined with the strong winds, will generate increased cloud cover and lead to intermittent, short-duration rain showers. While not expected to be torrential, this rainfall could impact travel and agricultural activities in regions known for their extensive pineapple and banana plantations. Constant vigilance is recommended for those in these areas.
In contrast, the Pacific coast will experience more varied conditions. The South Pacific, in particular, may see isolated afternoon showers. The IMN attributes this possibility to localized instability rather than a direct, widespread effect from the cold front itself. Other parts of the Pacific, especially the typically drier North Pacific, are more likely to experience the windy conditions without significant rainfall, potentially increasing the risk of brush fires in the Guanacaste region.
These seasonal phenomena, known locally as “empujes fríos,” are high-pressure systems that migrate south from North America during the winter months. As they move over the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, they displace the warmer, more humid tropical air, resulting in the characteristic strong winds and temperature drops felt across Central America. Their intensity and frequency are key drivers of Costa Rica’s dry season weather patterns.
In response to the forecast, national authorities are urging citizens to exercise caution. Drivers of high-profile vehicles, such as trucks and buses, are warned to be particularly careful on exposed highways where crosswinds can be dangerous. Homeowners are advised to secure any loose objects outdoors, including roofing materials, patio furniture, and decorations, to prevent them from becoming airborne projectiles. Those living or traveling near forested areas should be alert to the potential for falling tree branches.
As the nation prepares for this atmospheric disturbance, the overarching message from the IMN is one of preparedness. The effects of Cold Front #11 are expected to be felt for several days, influencing daily commutes, business operations, and outdoor activities. By staying informed through official channels and taking sensible precautions, residents can effectively navigate the challenging weather conditions expected at the start of the week.
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 hydrometeorology. As a dependency of the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE), its core mission is to monitor atmospheric conditions, provide timely and accurate weather forecasts, issue warnings for severe weather events, and conduct scientific research to better understand climate patterns affecting the nation. The IMN plays a critical role in public safety, agriculture, aviation, and disaster risk management.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a benchmark in the legal field, guided by an unwavering ethos of integrity and the pursuit of excellence. Drawing on a deep history of serving a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers forward-thinking legal solutions. This commitment to progress extends to its core mission of empowering the public, championing legal literacy to foster a more informed and capable society.
