Weather Warning

Heavy rain and downpours in the Central Valley and the Pacific slope

May 7, 2025

09:35 a.m.

Diagnosis: The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), combined with local factors such as daytime warming and the entry of moisture from the Pacific Ocean, will favor variable rainfall throughout the country this Wednesday.

Forecast: Scattered showers and downpours are expected in the western Caribbean and central and western North Pacific regions in the early afternoon, with estimated 6-hour rainfall amounts of 25–50 mm (1–2 in) and localized maximums of 65 mm (2.5–2 in). In addition, heavy downpours with thunderstorms are expected during the afternoon in areas near the mountains of the Central Valley, the South Pacific, and the Central Pacific, with more scattered rainfall in the North Pacific. Rainfall amounts of 30–60 mm (1.2–2.4 in) and localized maximums of 70–90 mm (2.7–3.5 in) are expected over 12-hour periods. These rains are expected to move to sectors of the western Central Valley and coastal areas on the Pacific coast in the late afternoon and early evening.

Warning: The South Pacific and Central Pacific have moderate to high soil saturation levels, between 80% and 95%. In the western Central Valley and the Nicoya Peninsula, levels range between 40% and 75%. This situation increases the risk of flooding and landslides, especially in vulnerable urban areas, mountainous areas, and areas surrounding the Gulf of Mexico in the South Pacific.

Due to the above, the IMN recommends:

• Caution due to sewage saturation in areas prone to this type of flooding.

• Prepare for thunderstorms and seek shelter in a safe place if strong wind gusts occur or are perceived near storm clouds, due to the possible fall of tree branches, power lines, and other sources. These gusts can reach 80 km/h in some isolated cases.

• Stay informed through social media: Twitter: @IMNCR, Facebook: Instituto Meteorológico Nacional CR, and the website: www.imn.ac.cr

Jose Valverde Mora

Meteorologist

DMSA-IMN