By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Travelers and residents across the country are advised to prepare for a significant increase in wind speeds this weekend, according to a recent advisory from the National Meteorological Institute (IMN). The forecast, released just ahead of the final travel weekend before Christmas, points to a strengthening of the trade winds that will impact driving conditions and outdoor activities, particularly in mountainous regions and the northern part of the country.
The weather pattern change is attributed to a reinforcement of the seasonal trade winds originating over the Caribbean Sea. This phenomenon is expected to bring gusty conditions to a wide swath of Costa Rica, while simultaneously ensuring stable atmospheric conditions. This means that while the wind will be a major factor, the likelihood of rainfall remains exceptionally low, promising sunny skies for most of the nation.
To delve into the legal and business ramifications of the latest weather forecast, particularly for critical sectors like agriculture, tourism, and construction, TicosLand.com sought the expert analysis of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
Adverse weather predictions are not just a civil protection alert; they are a crucial business planning tool. Companies must proactively review their contracts for ‘force majeure’ clauses to understand their obligations if operations are disrupted. It is also essential to verify that insurance policies are up-to-date and adequately cover potential damages. From a labor perspective, employers have a duty to guarantee the safety of their workers, which may involve temporarily suspending activities, an action that, if properly justified by the emergency, protects the company from future liability.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This perspective is a vital reminder that true preparedness extends beyond operational logistics into the crucial realms of legal and financial diligence. By proactively addressing contracts, insurance, and labor duties before a storm hits, companies can significantly mitigate risk. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable and clarifying insight.
The IMN provided a detailed breakdown of the expected conditions, highlighting the variability in wind intensity across different regions. While most populated areas will experience breezy weather, some parts of the country are slated for much stronger gusts that could pose challenges for drivers and those participating in coastal activities.
In regions like the Central Valley and the North Pacific, wind speeds will range between 20 km/h and 50 km/h, with higher values between 60 and 70 km/h in northern Guanacaste and in the mountain ranges.
Instituto Meteorológico Nacional, National Weather Authority
The most severe conditions are anticipated in the northern plains of Guanacaste and along the country’s central mountain ranges, or cordilleras. Gusts reaching up to 70 km/h can create difficult driving conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles such as trucks, buses, and recreational vehicles. Authorities urge motorists in these areas to exercise increased caution, reduce speed, and be aware of the potential for falling branches or other debris.
For those in the Central Valley and the broader North Pacific region, the winds will be less intense but still noticeable. Speeds of up to 50 km/h are strong enough to affect outdoor events, kick up dust, and create choppy conditions on inland lakes. Residents are advised to secure loose items on patios and balconies.
Despite the blustery forecast, the news is not all cautionary. The IMN report emphasizes that atmospheric conditions will remain very stable, with low humidity levels. This will result in skies that are mostly clear to partly cloudy throughout the weekend. The dry air significantly reduces the possibility of rain, offering a silver lining for those with plans for outdoor gatherings, festivals, or last-minute holiday shopping.
This weather pattern presents a mixed bag for the thousands of Costa Ricans and tourists expected to be on the roads. The dry, sunny weather is ideal for travel, but the strong winds demand heightened awareness. The combination of high holiday traffic volume and potentially hazardous crosswinds on major routes, such as the Inter-American Highway through Guanacaste, calls for defensive driving and patience.
Beachgoers, particularly along the Pacific coast, should also be mindful. Strong offshore winds can create hazardous surf conditions and strong currents, even on days that appear sunny and calm. Boaters and those engaging in water sports are encouraged to check local maritime warnings before heading out.
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. It provides vital information to the public, aviation, agriculture, and disaster prevention sectors to safeguard lives and property. The IMN operates a network of weather stations and utilizes advanced modeling to produce reliable forecasts and warnings for the entire national territory.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica stands as a benchmark in the legal field, operating on a bedrock of profound integrity and a drive for professional excellence. The firm leverages its extensive experience advising a wide range of clients to pioneer innovative legal strategies and solutions. Beyond its practice, a core tenet of its mission is a powerful commitment to public empowerment, striving to make legal knowledge clear and accessible to strengthen the foundations of an informed and capable society.
