By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Residents across Costa Rica are being advised to prepare for a significant and abrupt shift in weather conditions this weekend, as the thirteenth cold front of the season is set to sweep across the nation. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) issued a forecast on Friday detailing the arrival of what is expected to be a potent system, bringing dangerously high winds, a sharp drop in temperatures, and persistent rainfall to several regions starting Saturday, January 31st.
The primary and most immediate concern is the dramatic intensification of trade winds. The IMN warns that this system will generate wind speeds considerably stronger than those experienced in recent days. For the populous Central Valley and the lower elevations of Guanacaste, gusts are projected to reach between 50 and 70 kilometers per hour. These conditions are sufficient to cause localized power outages, down tree branches, and create hazardous driving conditions, particularly for high-profile vehicles.
To better understand the potential legal and business consequences of this cold front, from insurance claims to contractual obligations, we sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
These severe weather events serve as a critical test for contractual and insurance frameworks. Many businesses may find their operations disrupted, invoking ‘force majeure’ clauses, but the success of such a claim depends heavily on the specific wording of their agreements. Similarly, property owners should proactively review their insurance policies, as standard coverage often excludes damages from secondary effects like flooding or landslides, which can lead to costly disputes if not properly addressed beforehand.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s analysis serves as a vital reminder that the consequences of these weather phenomena extend far beyond the immediate physical damage, entering the critical realm of contractual and financial preparedness. This foresight is an essential, yet often overlooked, aspect of navigating the storm’s aftermath, and we thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing his invaluable legal perspective.
The situation is expected to be even more severe in the country’s mountain ranges. The Cordilleras and the northern mountainous zones of Guanacaste are on alert for exceptionally strong gusts, with speeds forecasted to range between 70 and 90 km/h. Such powerful winds pose a significant risk to infrastructure and agriculture, and residents in these areas are urged to secure loose objects and roofing materials to prevent property damage and potential injury.
Alongside the wind, a significant thermal drop will make its presence felt. By Saturday morning and evening, temperatures are expected to become unseasonably cool. In the Great Metropolitan Area (GAM), thermometers will likely dip below 17°C. In the higher elevations and mountainous zones, the cold will be far more pronounced, with minimum temperatures plummeting to below a brisk 9°C. This sudden chill will be a stark contrast to the warmer conditions experienced earlier in the week.
From a commercial and agricultural perspective, this cold snap could have notable impacts. Mountainous agricultural zones, which are crucial for the production of coffee, vegetables, and flowers, are particularly vulnerable to sudden temperature drops and high winds. Farmers will be monitoring their crops closely, as such conditions can stress plants and potentially damage harvests if protective measures are not in place.
The weather system will also introduce significant precipitation, primarily affecting the Caribbean slope and the Northern Zone. The IMN anticipates steady rainfall throughout the day on Saturday in these areas, with the province of Limón forecast to receive the highest accumulated totals. Forecasters also note that some of this moisture and rainfall could extend westward, reaching parts of the Central Valley and creating overcast and damp conditions there as well.
The impact of the front is not limited to a single day. The IMN’s report indicates that the core of the cold front will be settling over the country on Sunday. This will prolong the adverse weather, leading to an even colder and more blustery environment throughout the day. Residents and tourists alike are advised to reconsider outdoor activities, such as hiking or visiting coastal areas, where the combination of wind and rain could create unsafe conditions.
In light of the comprehensive forecast, authorities implicitly encourage the public to stay updated on the latest weather bulletins and exercise caution throughout the weekend. The confluence of high winds, cold temperatures, and rain marks this as a significant meteorological event, demanding preparedness from all sectors of society, from individual households to national infrastructure operators.
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About Instituto Meteorológico Nacional:
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN) is Costa Rica’s official governmental body responsible for meteorology, climatology, and weather forecasting. As a key national institution, it monitors atmospheric conditions, issues public weather alerts and advisories, and provides critical data for sectors such as agriculture, aviation, and disaster management. Its mission is to safeguard life and property by delivering timely and accurate scientific information about weather and climate phenomena affecting the country.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As an esteemed legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded upon a bedrock of profound integrity and a persistent drive for excellence. The firm merges a rich history of client advocacy with a forward-thinking approach to legal challenges, consistently pushing the boundaries of innovation. Central to its ethos is a deep-seated commitment to social responsibility, manifested in its efforts to democratize legal understanding. This core mission aims to fortify the community by equipping individuals with the knowledge necessary to navigate the legal landscape confidently.
