Published on Monday, June 22, 2026
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

Most of Costa Rica is expected to experience a stretch of sunny weather as the annual phenomenon known as the "Veranillo de San Juan" arrives later this month, according to the National Meteorological Institute (IMN).

The weather pattern, which is linked to the "Dog Days of Summer" observed in North America, is expected to bring several days of sunshine across much of the country from June 24 through June 30, according to meteorologists.

The term "Veranillo de San Juan" refers to the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, a Christian feast day celebrated annually on June 24. The brief period of drier, sunnier weather typically occurs around that date.

Experts forecast that the sunny conditions will gradually transition back to more typical rainy-season weather between July 1 and July 15.

Another seasonal weather phenomenon, known as the "Dog Days of Summer" (or "Canículas" in Costa Rica), is also expected to influence weather conditions across the country.

The period is characterized by hot, humid weather and is traditionally considered the hottest part of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. In North America, the phenomenon typically occurs between July and August and can last from 30 to 60 days.

In Costa Rica, the Dog Days are expected to increase temperatures from approximately July 15 through Aug. 15.

The IMN forecasts that a temporary southward shift of the Intertropical Convergence Zone during this period will reduce rainfall across much of the country.

The midyear weather pattern is expected to bring more sunny days, lower humidity levels and stronger easterly winds, particularly along the Pacific Coast and in the Central Valley, which includes the provinces of San José, Heredia, Alajuela and Cartago.

The North Pacific region, including Guanacaste Province, is expected to experience abundant sunshine and temperatures ranging from 86 °F  (30 °C) to 102 °F (39 °C).

Meanwhile, temperatures in the Central Valley and the Central Pacific region, including central Puntarenas Province, are forecast to range from 77°F (25 °C) to 86 °F (30 °C).

Not all regions will experience significantly drier conditions. The South Pacific region, including southern Puntarenas Province, and the Caribbean region, including Limón Province, are expected to maintain their typical green-season pattern of sunny mornings followed by afternoon rainfall.

The National Emergency Commission (CNE) recently issued an alert for parts of the Pacific Coast due to the anticipated reduction in rainfall.

However, meteorologists warned that tropical waves moving through the region could still trigger brief periods of heavy rain in many parts of the country.

Costa Rica has a tropical and subtropical climate with two primary seasons. The dry season, commonly referred to as summer, typically runs from December through May. The rainy season extends from June through November and generally coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season.

The IMN is Costa Rica’s government agency responsible for issuing weather forecasts, hazardous weather warnings and related public safety information.

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