Published on Monday, July 7, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Costa Rica is expected to experience sunny weather throughout most of July, thanks to the weather phenomenon commonly known in North America as the “Dog Days of Summer,” according to the Weather Institute (IMN).

The Dog Days, typically the hottest and most humid period of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, also affect Central America. In North America, this stretch usually starts in July, lasting anywhere from 30 to 60 days.

In Costa Rica, the IMN forecasts that this mid-year phenomenon will bring sunnier skies, lower humidity, and stronger easterly winds across much of the country.

However, brief and less intense showers may still occur, though they are expected to be lighter than the heavy rains recorded in recent weeks.

On the Pacific coast, including the provinces of Guanacaste and Puntarenas, sunny days with high temperatures around 86°F (30°C) are anticipated. In the Central Valley, which includes San José, Heredia, and Cartago, highs are expected to reach approximately 77°F (25°C).

This seasonal shift, however, is not expected to affect weather patterns on the Caribbean coast (Limón province) or in the Northern Zone (Alajuela province), where regular rainy season conditions are predicted to continue.

Nationwide, rainy season weather is projected to return starting in August and will likely continue through November, in line with Costa Rica’s typical climate cycle.

Meanwhile, taking advantage of the country’s traditional mid-year stretch of sunny weather, approximately one million students from public schools are beginning their mid-year break.

The National Meteorological Institute (IMN), known as the Weather Institute, is a government agency responsible for issuing weather forecasts, hazardous weather warnings, and related services to protect the public and inform organizations.

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What have you heard about the "Dog Days of Summer" in your country? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com