Weather Warning

Trade winds accelerate over the country

December 9, 2024

10:35 a.m.

Diagnosis: The increase in atmospheric pressure in the Caribbean Sea basin due to the passage of cold pressure #4 is causing the presence of accelerated trade winds with gusts between 30 - 60 km/h in low parts of the Central Valley, North Pacific and Northern Zone, while, over the mountain passes and mountain ranges, the maximum gusts are between 65 - 95 km/h. On the other hand, the trade wind carries humidity with occasional rains over the Caribbean slope and parts of the Northern Zone, with accumulations in the last 12 hours between 10 - 50 mm (55 mm near Upala).

Forecast: On Monday, accelerated trade winds will continue in the mentioned sectors, with gusts between 35 - 65 km/h in low parts and maximums between 65 - 95 km/h over the high parts. Regarding rainfall, occasional cloudiness will continue with rainfall of the same characteristics, with accumulations of 10-40 mm, with punctual maximums of 65 mm, this in 24-hour periods. In addition, drizzle to the east of the mountains and to the west-southwest of the mountain passes.

A new cold push is estimated for the second half of the week (EF#5), with a slight increase in the rainfall signal for the Caribbean and the corresponding trade wind signal characteristic of the season.

Warning: Special attention in mountainous areas of the North Caribbean, Northern Zone and surrounding low areas, because the basins present saturation levels between 85% to 95%.

Due to the above, the IMN recommends:

• Caution due to sewer saturation in places prone to this type of flooding, as well as increased flow in rivers and streams.

• Prevention due to wind gusts and their possible damage to roofs, electrical wiring, signs, trees, as well as in the mountainous parts of the country and Guanacaste (national parks, volcanoes).

• Caution in air navigation due to increased turbulence, as well as in maritime navigation due to increased rough seas, especially in the North Pacific, Gulf of Nicoya and northern Central Pacific.

• Avoid fires of any kind, as they can get out of control.

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

Jose Valverde Mora

Meteorologist

DMSA-IMN

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