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HomeNewsCosta Rica Braces for Rain and Thunderstorms as Tropical Wave Moves Through

Costa Rica Braces for Rain and Thunderstorms as Tropical Wave Moves Through

Costa Rica will see unstable weather from today through June 3, with warm mornings followed by afternoon and early-evening rain across much of pur country. The National Meteorological Institute (IMN) expects Tropical Wave No. 5 and the Intertropical Convergence Zone near Costa Rica to keep moisture and instability over the country during the forecast period. The pattern is typical of the rainy season’s early stretch: mornings with fewer clouds and higher temperatures, followed by growing cloud cover, downpours and thunderstorms later in the day.

The Central Valley and the Pacific regions are expected to see the most frequent rainfall, especially during the afternoon and the first hours of the night. San José, Alajuela, Heredia and Cartago could see clearer starts to the day before conditions turn cloudy, with scattered showers and thunderstorms developing later.

The Pacific coast should also prepare for repeated afternoon rain. The Central and South Pacific are likely to see heavier downpours and electrical storms, while the North Pacific will remain one of the hottest areas of the country. Parts of Guanacaste could reach 37°C to 38°C, especially around lower-elevation areas such as Nicoya and nearby communities.

The Caribbean and Northern Zone will also remain under unstable conditions, though rainfall there is expected to be more variable. Mountain areas in those regions could see isolated downpours and thunderstorms, especially as humidity builds through the day.

Nighttime conditions will remain partly cloudy in many areas, with rain possible during the early evening. Some of the coolest overnight temperatures could dip near 12°C in parts of the Central Valley and higher-elevation areas of the Pacific.

Fo hose who are planning outdoor activities, start early, expect slower travel later in the day, and keep an eye on road conditions after heavy rain. Afternoon storms can quickly reduce visibility, cause pooling on roads and raise the risk of localized flooding in low-lying areas.

Beachgoers in the Pacific should also be ready for sudden weather changes after midday. The mornings may still offer good windows for tours, hiking, surfing and travel between destinations, but the second half of the day is likely to be wetter and more unpredictable.

The rainy season is now settling in across much of Costa Rica, and this week’s forecast reflects that shift. Warm starts, humid afternoons and scattered thunderstorms will likely shape the country’s weather through at least June 3.

For more information you can look at our Costa Rica Weather Forecast for additional information.

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