Costa Rica rings in the New Year under the influence of a cold surge bringing significant weather impacts across the country. Strong trade winds persist in Guanacaste and the Central Valley with speeds estimated between 40 and 75 km/h (25 to 47 mph) in the Central Valley, increasing to 60 to 80 km/h (37 to 50 mph) in Guanacaste and the Talamanca mountain range, with possible gusts near 100 km/h (62 mph).
Starting Tuesday, December 30th, precipitation increases in the Caribbean, Northern Zone, and mountain ranges in general, with these effects continuing at least until Friday, January 2nd. The Central Valley experiences drizzle or rain in low-lying areas near mountain ranges, particularly Cartago, San José, and Heredia, with occasional precipitation also possible over northern Alajuela.
Daytime temperatures decrease during the week, with Wednesday and Thursday bringing the coolest conditions and an enhanced feeling of chill, especially when combined with persistent winds. 
Break out the hot chocolate, ponche, or agua dulce during nights, especially for your New Year’s celebrations!
Strong winds dominate with developing cloudiness ahead of Tuesday’s precipitation increase.
Mornings: Partly to mostly cloudy in the Pacific and Central Valley, windy, with possible drizzle and rain.
Afternoons: Partly to mostly cloudy in the Pacific and Central Valley, windy in Guanacaste and the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM), with possible drizzle in mountains and nearby lowlands.
Nights: Partly cloudy in the Pacific and Central Valley, windy, with possible drizzle and intermittent rain.
Rainfall increases in Caribbean and Northern Zone regions while Central Valley sees enhanced drizzle and rain near mountain ranges.
Mornings: Partly to mostly cloudy in the Pacific and Central Valley, windy, with drizzle and rain particularly near mountain ranges (Cartago, San José, Heredia, northern Alajuela). Cloudy with rain and showers in the Caribbean and Northern Zone.
Afternoons: Partly to mostly cloudy in the Pacific and Central Valley, windy in Guanacaste and GAM, with drizzle in mountains and nearby lowlands. Partly to mostly cloudy with rain in the Caribbean and Northern Zone.
Nights: Partly cloudy in the Pacific and Central Valley, windy, with drizzle and intermittent rain. Mostly cloudy with rain and showers over Limón and the Northern Zone.
Conditions begin improving as cold surge effects diminish.
Caribbean & Northern Zone: Rain and showers Tuesday-Friday (Dec 30-Jan 2). Cloudy conditions with consistent precipitation during peak cold surge period.
Central Valley: Drizzle and rain near mountain ranges, particularly affecting Cartago, San José, and Heredia. Northern Alajuela may see occasional precipitation. Strong winds 40-75 km/h (25-47 mph). Daytime temperatures drop significantly with coldest conditions Wednesday-Thursday. Overnight temperatures in mountain areas will drop to 13°C (55.4°F), feeling even colder with wind chill.
Pacific Regions: Mostly dry but windy. Drizzle possible in mountains and nearby lowlands. Generally favorable conditions despite strong winds.
Guanacaste: Very strong winds 60-80 km/h (37-50 mph) with possible gusts over 100 km/h (62 mph). Secure all loose items, outdoor furniture, and decorations. Exercise caution driving, especially high-profile vehicles.
Talamanca Mountains: Very strong winds 60-80 km/h (37-50 mph) with possible gusts nearing 100 km/h (62 mph). Mountain areas experience enhanced drizzle and rain.
December 31st falls during the period of enhanced precipitation in Caribbean and Northern Zone areas, with drizzle possible in parts of the Central Valley near mountain ranges. Pacific regions remain mostly dry but windy. Plan outdoor celebrations with weather conditions in mind, particularly regarding strong winds that could affect fireworks displays and outdoor decorations.
Significantly cooler temperatures this week, especially in the Central Valley.
| Region | High °C (°F) | Low °C (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| Central Valley | 28° (82.4°) | 13° (55.4°) |
| North Pacific | 33° (91.4°) | 20° (68°) |
| Central Pacific | 32° (89.6°) | 14° (57.2°) |
| South Pacific | 32° (89.6°) | 14° (57.2°) |
| Caribbean | 30° (86°) | 15° (59°) |
| Northern Zone | 31° (87.8°) | 17° (62.6°) |
This forecast is based on outlooks from Costa Rica’s National Meteorological Institute (IMN).
