The stable and sunny conditions of recent days have an expiration date. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) has confirmed that the country must prepare for a drastic change in weather conditions starting next week, due to the passage of the season’s first cold surge (cold front) over the Central American region.
This meteorological phenomenon, typical of the transition toward the end of the year, will bring a significant increase in the speed of trade winds and a noticeable drop in temperatures, especially in high-altitude areas and the Central Valley. According to experts, the influence of this system will begin to be felt strongly across the national territory, altering the daily dynamics of Costaricans who must, starting now, “get their coats ready.”
Impact on regions: Wind, rain, and cold
The technical report indicates that the cold surge will not only affect thermal sensation but will also generate a pattern of persistent rainfall. The Caribbean and Northern Zone regions will be the most impacted by rains of varying intensity, as the cold air mass pushes moisture toward these areas, causing constant cloudiness and intermittent showers.
For its part, the Central Valley and the mountain ranges will experience wind gusts that could reach speeds between 60 and 80 kilometers per hour in the most vulnerable sectors. This increase in wind force will not only heighten the feeling of cold but also represents a risk for falling branches, signs, and power lines; therefore, emergency authorities are calling for preventive vigilance.
Recommendations for the population
Given this outlook, health and emergency services recommend that citizens take immediate measures to mitigate the effects of this climate change:
- Health protection: The population, especially children and older adults, is urged to keep warm to avoid an increase in respiratory illnesses, which are common during the arrival of these systems.
- Road safety: Drivers are asked to use extreme caution due to possible reduced visibility from fog banks in areas such as Cerro de la Muerte and Route 32, as well as the presence of debris on the road blown by the wind.
- Vigilance in risk zones: Those residing near hillsides or rivers in the Caribbean and the Northern Zone must stay alert to soil saturation levels, as rains could be persistent for several days.
A recurring but challenging phenomenon
For People of Costa Rica, this meteorological event marks the official start of the Northern Hemisphere frontal system season that directly affects our isthmus. Although it is an expected phenomenon for the season, the intensity of the winds predicted for next week requires rigorous preparation from both institutions and households.
The IMN will continue to monitor the progress of this cold surge from the Caribbean Sea and will issue periodic updates. For now, the national directive is clear: protect yourself from the drop in temperatures and secure structures against the force of the winds that are about to arrive.
