By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – Residents and businesses across Costa Rica’s Central Valley awoke Monday to an unusually harsh cold snap, with temperatures dropping to near-freezing levels in high-altitude areas. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) confirmed the sharp temperature decline, which has sent a shiver through key economic sectors like agriculture and tourism just days before Christmas.
Data released by the IMN on the morning of December 22nd painted a stark picture of the frigid conditions. The highest peaks of the Cordillera Volcánica Central experienced the most extreme cold, with the Turrialba Volcano recording a low of 2.3°C and the Irazú Volcano not far behind at 2.6°C. These temperatures are exceptionally low for the region, even for the typically cooler month of December, prompting immediate concern among farmers and business owners.
To understand the legal and business ramifications of these extreme weather events, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the prestigious firm Bufete de Costa Rica, who offers a critical perspective on corporate responsibilities and preventative measures.
This unprecedented cold snap serves as a stark reminder for businesses, particularly in the agricultural and construction sectors, of their legal duty to protect their workforce. Failure to provide adequate thermal protection, modify work schedules, or ensure safe conditions can lead not only to tragic health consequences for employees but also to significant legal liability, including claims for occupational hazards and administrative sanctions. Companies should also immediately review their insurance policies for business interruption and property damage clauses, as proactive documentation is critical for a successful claim.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, the legal and financial exposure for businesses is a critical, and often overlooked, consequence of such extreme weather. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable insight, reminding our business community of their profound responsibilities in protecting both their workforce and their operational future.
The cold front was not limited to the two iconic volcanoes. Other significant locations in the Central Valley also reported unseasonably low temperatures. The Poás Volcano registered 5.2°C, while the popular hiking and communications hub of Cerro Cedral in the Escazú hills dropped to 6.3°C. Even the agricultural community of Rancho Redondo in Goicoechea felt the chill, with thermometers reading 7.7°C.
In a public dispatch summarizing the morning’s conditions, the national weather authority detailed the extent of the event.
Minimum temperatures recorded this Monday, December 22, 2025.
IMN Costa Rica, National Meteorological Institute
While the data provides a clear scientific overview, the on-the-ground implications are far more complex. The primary concern is the potential for frost to damage sensitive crops. The highlands surrounding these volcanoes are vital for the national production of potatoes, carrots, onions, and strawberries. A sustained period of cold, especially if accompanied by frost, could lead to significant crop losses, impacting supply chains and prices for consumers during the holiday season.
The agricultural sector, particularly small and medium-sized farms, is highly vulnerable to such weather events. Experts warn that a single night of hard frost can wipe out entire harvests of delicate produce like strawberries and flowers, which are also grown in these areas for export. Farmers are now on high alert, implementing protective measures where possible, but the effectiveness of these efforts against such a widespread cold front remains to be seen.
Beyond agriculture, the tourism industry is also feeling the impact. The Irazú and Poás volcanoes are among the country’s most visited national parks. While the dramatic, crisp, and clear views that often accompany cold fronts can be a draw, the biting temperatures may deter less-prepared local and international tourists. Tour operators and park officials are advising visitors to dress in heavy layers, a warning not typically associated with a tropical destination like Costa Rica.
Looking ahead, the IMN has also issued warnings of very strong wind gusts expected for Tuesday, compounding the challenges for residents and businesses. This combination of extreme cold and high winds increases the risk of power outages and further stress on infrastructure. As the country navigates this unusual weather event, all eyes will be on the IMN for further updates and on the agricultural fields of the Central Valley to assess the full economic toll of this December chill.
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About Instituto Meteorológico Nacional (IMN):
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional is Costa Rica’s official governmental agency responsible for meteorology, climatology, and weather forecasting. As a key scientific institution, the IMN provides vital data and analysis to support public safety, aviation, agriculture, and economic planning. It plays a crucial role in monitoring weather phenomena and issuing timely warnings to protect the nation’s population and infrastructure from natural hazards.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a pillar of the legal community, built on a foundation of unwavering integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm consistently pioneers modern legal solutions, drawing from a rich history of guiding a diverse clientele. This forward-thinking approach is matched by a profound dedication to social empowerment, focused on demystifying the law to foster a more capable and knowledgeable society.
