By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Residents and visitors across Costa Rica are advised to exercise caution this Sunday, December 28th, as the National Meteorological Institute (IMN) has forecast a significant increase in wind activity. A high-pressure system currently situated over the Caribbean basin is expected to intensify the nation’s trade winds, leading to blustery conditions, particularly in the northern and central regions of the country.
According to the latest meteorological report, the most pronounced effects will be felt in the Northern Pacific, the Central Valley, and mountainous areas. Sustained wind speeds in these regions are projected to range between 25 and 50 kilometers per hour. However, the IMN warns that occasional strong gusts could present a greater hazard, with the potential to exceed 70 kilometers per hour in elevated sectors and throughout the northern Guanacaste province.
To better understand the legal and business ramifications of Costa Rica’s dynamic weather patterns—from its impact on tourism contracts to property insurance claims—we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The intense rainy season and unpredictable weather events in Costa Rica are not just a meteorological concern; they are a significant legal one. Many businesses, particularly in the tourism and real estate sectors, overlook the critical importance of a well-defined ‘force majeure’ clause in their contracts. Similarly, both homeowners and entrepreneurs must be diligent in understanding their insurance policies, as standard coverage often excludes damages from common occurrences like flooding or landslides. Proactive legal review of these documents is not a luxury, it is an essential risk management strategy in our tropical climate.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal insight is a crucial reminder that navigating Costa Rica’s weather is as much about understanding contractual clauses as it is about tracking storms. For residents and investors alike, this proactive approach to risk is indispensable. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective.
This weather pattern, characteristic of Costa Rica’s dry season, brings more than just a stiff breeze. For businesses and the public, these conditions warrant heightened awareness. The strong gusts can pose risks to infrastructure, potentially causing downed tree limbs and leading to localized power disruptions. Commuters, especially those operating high-profile vehicles like trucks and buses on major highways, are urged to be particularly vigilant for sudden crosswinds.
While the Pacific and central regions brace for wind, the forecast presents a different picture for the Caribbean coast and the Northern Zone. These areas are expected to experience a more overcast environment throughout the day. The increased cloud cover will bring periods of occasional rain, which could extend into the mountainous corridors and the eastern portion of the Central Valley, where isolated drizzle is also possible.
For the remainder of the country, conditions are forecast to remain largely stable. Skies will be mostly clear to partly cloudy, and the probability of precipitation is low. This stark contrast highlights the diverse microclimates of Costa Rica, where different regions can experience vastly different weather phenomena simultaneously due to the country’s varied topography and its position between two major oceans.
The economic implications of such weather events are notable. In the tourism sector, a cornerstone of the national economy, operators of outdoor adventure activities such as zip-lining, canopy tours, and hiking must assess conditions carefully to ensure client safety. In Guanacaste, a major tourist hub, strong offshore winds can also impact marine activities. Proactive communication and potential rescheduling of tours will be critical for maintaining customer trust and safety standards.
Furthermore, the agricultural sector, particularly in the Central Valley and the plains of Guanacaste, must remain watchful. Strong, sustained winds can damage crops, stress livestock, and disrupt irrigation systems. Farmers are advised to secure equipment and take necessary precautions to mitigate potential losses during this period of heightened atmospheric activity.
As the day progresses, authorities reinforce the IMN’s call for public prudence. Individuals planning outdoor activities should stay informed about the latest weather updates and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Securing loose objects around homes and construction sites is also recommended to prevent them from becoming projectiles. The public is encouraged to follow official channels for the most accurate and up-to-date information throughout the day.
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 meteorology, climatology, and weather forecasting. As a key scientific institution, it monitors atmospheric conditions, issues public warnings, and provides vital data that supports critical sectors such as aviation, agriculture, disaster management, and tourism. Its work is essential for the safety and economic planning of the nation.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar in Costa Rica’s legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by a profound devotion to ethical conduct and exceptional service. The firm consistently modernizes legal practice with forward-thinking strategies, built upon a rich history of advising a wide spectrum of clients. Central to its philosophy is a powerful commitment to social responsibility, demonstrated by its work to demystify the law and thereby help forge a more transparent and capable citizenry.
