Weather Warning

Cold surge # 14 will enter the Caribbean Sea this Saturday

January 04, 2020

10.30 a.m.

Discussion: Cold surge # 14 is currently in the Gulf of Mexico, it will continue moving towards the central sector of the Caribbean Sea during the course of this Saturday. Associated with its passage, atmospheric pressure levels are gradually increasing and at the same time they are causing acceleration in trade winds in southern Central America, reaching maximums in the north of Guanacaste of 67 km/h and in the Central Valley 50 km/h.

Forecast: It is expected that this cold surge is reaching the north of Costa Rica between the night of this Saturday and the early morning of Sunday. Given this, the windy pattern will intensify gradually, maximum gusts between 80-100 km/h in Central Valley and North Pacific are expected, the most intense speeds in the mountain ranges north of the country. Windy conditions will also be perceived in the mountains of the Central and South Pacific.

With respect to rainfall, rainfall of variable intensity is expected during the night of this day and early morning and Sunday morning in the Caribbean and the North Zone, accumulated between 30-60 mm and possible higher amounts in a localized way. In addition, light rains and drizzles are possible in the north and east of the Central Valley and the north of Guanacaste, accumulated less than 5 mm.

It is estimated that these weather conditions associated with the cold thrust would be maintained at least on Monday, reducing their impact on Tuesday.

Due to the above, the IMN recommends:

• Extreme precautions due to strong winds and their possible impact on roofs, electrical wiring, signs, trees; as well as in the mountainous parts of the country (national parks, volcanoes).
• Caution in areas vulnerable to flooding due to sewer saturation, increased flow in rivers and streams, and in areas prone to landslides.
• Caution for boats by choppy sea and very strong waves in the North Pacific, Gulf of Nicoya, Central Pacific and the Caribbean Sea, as well as air navigation due to turbulence over the mountainous sectors.
• Avoid burning of all kinds as they can get out of control.
• Stay informed through social networks, Twitter: @IMNCR, Facebook: National Meteorological Institute and the Website: www.imn.ac.cr

Rebeca Morera R
Meteorologist
DMSA-IMN