Strong winds are expected across much of Costa Rica as Cold Front No.17 moves toward the Caribbean Sea, according to the National Meteorological Institute (IMN).

Forecasters said the weather system was near Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula on Sunday and continuing toward the Caribbean.

Although the cold front is not expected to directly impact Costa Rica, it is contributing to increased wind activity nationwide.


Windy conditions are forecast to begin Monday and continue through Wednesday. Weather conditions are expected to improve by Thursday.

IMN warned that higher-elevation areas, particularly along the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, could experience wind gusts of up to 50 mph. Temperatures in those regions may drop by approximately 32°F (0°C).

The Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) issued a precautionary notice for Route 32, the main highway linking the provinces of San José and Limón. Officials warned that overnight closures are possible due to the risk of fallen trees caused by strong winds.

Drivers are encouraged to consider alternate routes, including Route 10 through Turrialba Canton in Cartago Province and onward to Siquirres Canton in Heredia Province, before rejoining Route 32 toward Limón. Traffic updates will be shared through MOPT’s official social media channels.

The National Emergency Commission (CNE) has issued a green weather alert,  the first level of warning,  for the provinces of Limón, Guanacaste, San José, Heredia, Alajuela and Cartago.

Under a Green Alert, local emergency committees are instructed to closely monitor conditions due to an elevated risk of flooding or other weather-related emergencies.

No alert has been issued for the Central Pacific Coast, (Puntarenas province).

The CNE advised residents to take the following precautions:

• Secure roofs and be alert for possible damage to power lines, signs and trees due to strong wind gusts.

• Small boats should avoid sailing because of the risk of stronger waves.

• Avoid small aircraft flights that cross mountainous areas due to increased high winds.

• Refrain from controlled burning, as strong winds can cause even small fires to spread rapidly.

• Call 911 to report any immediate threat to life or property.

IMN is a government agency responsible for issuing weather forecasts, hazardous weather warnings, and related services to protect the public and inform organizations.

CNE works in partnership with communities and emergency responders to strengthen the nation’s preparedness, response, and recovery from natural hazards.

MOPT is the government agency responsible for managing the country’s roads, ports, and airports, as well as overseeing public transportation policy.

A.M. Costa Rica urged readers to share the official weather advisory to help raise public awareness.