Published on Tuesday, November 25, 2025
By the A.M. Costa Rica staff

The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) issued a weather warning on Tuesday as Cold Front No.4 moves toward the country.

The system was advancing across the northern Caribbean Sea and is expected to affect Costa Rica from Wednesday through Friday. Forecasters expect conditions to improve by Saturday.

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.

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

However, experts said this weather system may have a weaker impact than initially expected. The Intertropical Convergence Zone, a belt of low pressure near the equator that commonly produces rain and thunderstorms, is currently stretching across Colombia from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea and is not directly influencing Costa Rica.

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 50°F (10°C) in the highest mountain regions to around 95°F (35°C) in the northern Pacific region, including Guanacaste Province.

As of Tuesday, 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.

Although the cold front is affecting the country this week, experts said the final rainy days of the current green season will gradually give way to sunnier, warmer weather across Costa Rica in November.

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.

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