The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) issued a weather warning Monday as Cold Front No.6 is expected to move toward the region.

Experts said the system was moving across Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula on Monday and heading into the northern Caribbean Sea. Although it is not expected to affect Costa Rica directly, it could cause stronger winds.

The weather disturbance forms along the boundary between cool and warm air masses and often brings sudden temperature drops, strong winds and thunderstorms.

Cold front season in the Caribbean and Central America typically runs from late November through March, with the strongest activity occurring between December and February.

In addition, experts noted that the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ),  a belt of low pressure near the equator that often produces rain and thunderstorms, is currently crossing northern Panama from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea.

The windy weather is expected to begin affecting the country on Monday and continue through Thursday. Forecasters expect conditions to improve by Friday.

 

Meteorologists warned of strong wind gusts of up to 50mph, particularly in high-elevation areas such as the Central Volcanic Mountain Range.

Temperatures are expected to remain stable, ranging from about 40°F (4°C) in the highest mountain regions to around 95°F (35°C) in the northern Pacific Coast.

As of Monday, the National Emergency Commission (CNE) had not issued any alert related to the approaching weather systems.

The Ministry of Public Works and Transportation (MOPT) has issued a precautionary notice for Route 32, the main highway between San José and Limón.

Officials warn that overnight closures are possible due to landslide risks. Drivers are urged to consider alternate routes, such as Route 10 through Turrialba Canton (Cartago) and on to Siquirres Canton (Heredia), before rejoining Route 32 toward Limón. Traffic updates will be shared through MOPT’s official social media channels.

Authorities are advising residents to take the following precautions:

• Avoid rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water during heavy rain.

• In mountain areas, watch for landslides and falling debris.

• Households and businesses in flood-prone zones should review evacuation plans.

• Drivers should beware of flooding, slick roads, and low visibility.

• Stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid electronic devices.

• Watch for strong winds that could bring down trees or power lines.

• Avoid controlled burning, as strong winds can cause even a small fire to spread quickly.
  

• Call 911 to report flooding, landslides, or fallen trees.

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 urges readers to share this official weather advisory to help spread awareness.