Heavy rain and strong winds are threatening thousands of Romería pilgrims walking to Cartago during the pilgrimage weekend of July 31 to Aug. 2 [1].
The weather poses significant safety risks for the thousands [1] of romeros traveling on foot. Severe gusts and torrential rain can create hazardous road conditions, including falling debris and reduced visibility in the mountain regions leading to the Basílica.
Meteorologists attribute the volatile weather to Tropical Wave 27 [1], which is currently moving across the country. This system is bringing a combination of heavy rainfall and gusty winds to the region. In the mountain areas surrounding Cartago, wind gusts could reach up to 80 km/h [1].
Earlier reports from the month indicated a broader pattern of instability across the country. On July 9, forecasts predicted strong trade winds with gusts between 40 and 75 km/h [2], particularly affecting northern Guanacaste and various mountain areas [2].
The Tico Times warned pilgrims to prepare for extreme conditions during their journey. "If you are walking to Cartago this weekend, plan on getting soaked at some point," the Tico Times said. "Plan also for wind strong enough to bring a branch down into the road in front of you."
Local authorities and organizers typically monitor these weather patterns closely to ensure the safety of the crowds. The Romería is one of the most significant religious events in Costa Rica, drawing massive numbers of people into the highlands regardless of the weather conditions.
“Plan on getting soaked at some point.”
The intersection of a major religious pilgrimage and a tropical wave creates a high-risk scenario for public safety. Because the Romería involves thousands of pedestrians in high-altitude mountain corridors, wind gusts of 80 km/h and heavy rain increase the likelihood of landslides or fallen trees, potentially blocking primary routes to the Basílica.
