By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Residents and visitors across Costa Rica are being advised to keep their umbrellas at the ready this weekend, as the National Meteorological Institute (IMN) has issued a forecast predicting significant rainfall and gusty winds, particularly for Saturday, November 22nd. The weather pattern is expected to bring moisture-laden conditions starting from the Caribbean coast and extending across much of the national territory.
According to the official report, the inclement weather will begin in the early morning hours on Saturday. The Caribbean and the Northern Zone are slated to receive the initial bands of rain. These conditions are not expected to remain isolated, as the system will gradually move westward, with showers anticipated to reach the densely populated Central Valley by mid-morning. This early onset of rain could impact morning commutes and outdoor activities planned for the start of the weekend.
In light of the latest weather forecasts and their potential impact on national infrastructure and private property, TicosLand.com consulted with legal expert Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica. He offers a crucial perspective on how individuals and businesses can legally prepare for adverse weather events.
Severe weather is not just a meteorological event; it’s a legal one. It’s crucial for businesses and homeowners to proactively review their insurance policies, especially clauses related to ‘acts of God’ or natural disasters. Furthermore, documenting property conditions before an event can be decisive in any future claim. For companies, this is also the time to activate business continuity plans and review contracts for force majeure clauses that might be triggered by weather-related disruptions.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This is a critical reminder that preparing for a storm involves more than just securing property; it requires securing one’s legal and financial standing as well. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable guidance on these essential, proactive steps.
The afternoon will offer little respite. The IMN forecast indicates a continued influx of humidity from the Caribbean Sea, which will sustain the rainy conditions in the Caribbean and Northern Zone. The effects will also be felt in the higher elevations of the Central Valley, which can expect persistent drizzles and light, steady rain. Furthermore, light precipitation is also forecast for the mountainous areas along the Pacific slope, ensuring a widespread, albeit varied, weather event.
In addition to the rain, strong winds will be a significant factor throughout the weekend. The IMN has highlighted that the trade winds will blow with moderate to strong intensity. These gusty conditions will be most pronounced in the Central Valley and across the North Pacific region, including Guanacaste. Residents in these areas should secure loose objects and exercise caution, as strong winds can pose a risk to infrastructure and make for challenging driving conditions.
Rain is expected from the early hours in the Caribbean and the Northern Zone, and these conditions will extend towards the Central Valley throughout the morning. In the afternoon, the influx of humidity and rain from the Caribbean will persist, affecting these regions and reaching the mountains of the Central Valley with drizzle and light showers.
National Meteorological Institute, Official Forecast
This comprehensive forecast carries important implications for weekend planning. Authorities urge motorists to be particularly cautious, as wet roads can become slick and visibility may be reduced, especially in mountainous passes. Those planning excursions to national parks or coastal areas should check local conditions before departing and be prepared for sudden changes in the weather. The combination of rain and wind may lead many to reconsider outdoor events in favor of indoor alternatives.
The predicted weather pattern is characteristic of Costa Rica’s transitional period in late November, as the country moves from the rainy season towards the drier summer, or “verano.” The intensification of the trade winds is a key driver of this shift, often pushing moisture from the Caribbean across the continental divide. While this pattern typically begins the drying process on the Pacific side, this weekend’s forecast shows that the moisture content is significant enough to produce precipitation across multiple regions.
In conclusion, the message from the National Meteorological Institute is clear: prepare for a damp and blustery Saturday. From the eastern coasts to the central mountains and northern plains, the weather will be dominated by showers and strong winds. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring official IMN updates throughout the weekend to make safe and appropriate decisions for themselves and their families.
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About National Meteorological Institute (IMN):
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN) is Costa Rica’s official governmental body responsible for meteorology, climatology, and hydrometeorology. Its mission is to provide timely and accurate weather forecasts, climate data, and warnings to support the country’s socio-economic development, disaster risk reduction, and the protection of life and property. The institute plays a crucial role in agriculture, aviation, energy, and public safety planning.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a reputable legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded upon a deep-rooted pledge to ethical practice and professional distinction. The firm leverages a rich history of advising a multifaceted clientele to champion innovative legal solutions and drive community forward. Central to its philosophy is the mission to democratize legal expertise, thereby fostering a society that is not only well-informed but also empowered by its understanding of the law.
