September falls squarely inside Costa Rica’s “inexperienced season,” often known as the wet season. This era is characterised by lush landscapes, vibrant flora, and usually decrease costs for lodging and excursions. Rainfall is usually heavier within the afternoons and evenings, leaving mornings comparatively clear. This sample gives vacationers the chance to get pleasure from out of doors actions earlier than the everyday afternoon showers. Pacific coastal areas, together with in style locations corresponding to Manuel Antonio and Tamarindo, can expertise vital rainfall, whereas the Caribbean coast, significantly the south, typically sees much less. Particular regional microclimates additional affect precipitation patterns, making localized forecasts important for planning actions.
Understanding Costa Rica’s local weather in September is essential for vacationers. Whereas the rain contributes to the nation’s breathtaking biodiversity, it may additionally impression journey plans. Being ready for afternoon showers permits guests to maximise their expertise. This era gives distinctive alternatives for observing wildlife and having fun with the verdant surroundings. Traditionally, September has marked a transition interval between the height tourism season and the drier months. This historically interprets into fewer crowds and extra alternatives for immersive experiences.
This text will delve into the particular regional variations in September’s local weather, providing detailed insights into anticipated temperatures, rainfall, and humidity ranges. It should additionally discover the benefits and downsides of touring to Costa Rica throughout this time, offering sensible suggestions and suggestions for packing, planning actions, and taking advantage of the inexperienced season’s distinctive choices.
1. Inexperienced Season
The time period “inexperienced season” is synonymous with Costa Rica’s wet season, which encompasses September. This era considerably influences the nation’s climate patterns, impacting journey experiences and necessitating particular preparations. Understanding the implications of the inexperienced season is essential for planning a September journey to Costa Rica.
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Rainfall Patterns
Rainfall throughout the inexperienced season is characterised by afternoon showers, typically heavy however usually short-lived. Mornings are typically clear, providing alternatives for out of doors actions. This predictable sample permits vacationers to schedule their days successfully. Nonetheless, the depth and length of rainfall can fluctuate considerably by area and microclimate.
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Lush Vegetation
The considerable rainfall throughout the inexperienced season transforms Costa Rica’s landscapes into vibrant, verdant ecosystems. Flora thrives, creating gorgeous visuals for nature fanatics and photographers. Rivers and waterfalls swell, providing dramatic shows of pure magnificence. This lush vegetation contributes considerably to the nation’s wealthy biodiversity.
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Impression on Wildlife
The inexperienced season performs an important function within the life cycles of Costa Rican wildlife. Elevated meals availability and appropriate breeding circumstances result in heightened animal exercise. This gives distinctive alternatives for wildlife viewing, significantly birdwatching. Nonetheless, some animals would possibly search shelter throughout heavy downpours, probably impacting visibility.
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Journey Concerns
Journey throughout the inexperienced season requires particular preparations. Packing rain gear, together with waterproof jackets, sneakers, and baggage, is crucial. Selecting quick-drying clothes and moisture-wicking materials enhances consolation. Vacationers must also anticipate potential disruptions to out of doors actions resulting from rain and pack accordingly. Researching particular regional climate patterns is extremely really useful.
These sides of the inexperienced season collectively outline the climate expertise in Costa Rica throughout September. Whereas the rain contributes considerably to the nation’s pure magnificence and ecological vitality, it additionally necessitates cautious planning and preparation to make sure a snug and fulfilling journey.
2. Afternoon Rains
Afternoon rains represent a defining attribute of September climate in Costa Rica. This sample, pushed by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and influenced by Pacific Ocean moisture, considerably shapes day by day life and journey experiences. The solar heats the land and ocean all through the morning, inflicting heat, moist air to rise. As this air cools within the afternoon, it condenses, forming cumulonimbus clouds and leading to heavy, but typically transient, downpours. These rains contribute to the plush landscapes synonymous with the inexperienced season. As an illustration, the rainforest areas round Monteverde and La Fortuna expertise this cycle frequently, fostering the colourful ecosystems these areas are identified for.
Understanding this diurnal precipitation sample is essential for planning actions. Whereas mornings typically supply clear skies appropriate for mountaineering, zip-lining, or exploring seashores, vacationers ought to anticipate and put together for afternoon showers. Carrying rain gear, together with waterproof jackets, pants, and backpacks, turns into important. Selecting lodging with coated out of doors areas permits for continued enjoyment of the pure environment regardless of the rain. Moreover, recognizing that afternoon rains typically clear up rapidly might help vacationers optimize their itineraries.
The prevalence of afternoon rains in September underscores the dynamic nature of Costa Rican climate. This attribute, whereas probably disruptive to some out of doors plans, contributes considerably to the nation’s ecological richness and gives a novel expertise for guests. Adapting to this predictable sample permits vacationers to completely respect the wonder and biodiversity that flourish throughout the inexperienced season. The depth and length of those rains can fluctuate throughout totally different areas, highlighting the significance of consulting localized climate forecasts for particular locations inside Costa Rica.
3. Lush Landscapes
September’s climate in Costa Rica straight contributes to the nation’s famously lush landscapes. The substantial rainfall attribute of the “inexperienced season” nourishes the considerable flora, leading to vibrant rainforests, verdant valleys, and thriving cloud forests. This era sees elevated water circulation in rivers and waterfalls, enhancing the dramatic fantastic thing about pure points of interest like La Paz Waterfall Gardens and the Pacuare River. The fixed moisture additionally promotes the expansion of epiphytes, corresponding to orchids and bromeliads, which adorn bushes and add to the visible richness of the atmosphere. For instance, Monteverde’s cloud forests develop into much more mystical and shrouded in mist throughout September, providing a novel expertise for guests.
The connection between September climate and luxurious landscapes extends past easy aesthetics. The colourful vegetation helps a fancy ecosystem, offering habitat and sustenance for a wide selection of wildlife. This abundance of life creates distinctive alternatives for wildlife viewing, significantly birdwatching. The flourishing plants additionally performs a vital function in carbon sequestration, contributing to Costa Rica’s famend dedication to environmental conservation. Moreover, the dramatic landscapes entice vacationers, contributing considerably to the nation’s financial system. Recognizing the interaction between climate patterns and ecosystem well being underscores the significance of sustainable tourism practices.
In abstract, the plush landscapes that outline Costa Rica’s pure magnificence are inextricably linked to the September climate patterns. Whereas the elevated rainfall might current some logistical challenges for vacationers, it’s important for sustaining the ecological integrity and visible splendor of the nation. Understanding this connection permits guests to understand the importance of the inexperienced season and plan accordingly, making certain a rewarding and accountable journey expertise.
4. Fewer Crowds
September in Costa Rica presents a novel alternative for vacationers looking for a much less crowded expertise. The “inexperienced season,” with its elevated rainfall, usually deters some vacationers, leading to fewer guests in comparison with the height dry season. This decreased inflow of vacationers interprets to numerous benefits, from enhanced wildlife viewing alternatives to a extra tranquil immersion within the nation’s pure magnificence. Understanding the correlation between September climate and lowered crowds can considerably affect journey planning and total expertise.
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Enhanced Wildlife Encounters
With fewer guests traversing nationwide parks and reserves, wildlife encounters typically develop into extra intimate and frequent in September. Animals could also be much less disturbed and exhibit extra pure behaviors. For instance, in Manuel Antonio Nationwide Park, the decreased human presence can result in nearer observations of monkeys, sloths, and iguanas. This gives a definite benefit for nature fanatics and photographers.
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Better Accessibility to Lodging and Actions
Diminished vacationer site visitors typically interprets to elevated availability and probably decrease costs for lodging and excursions. Widespread locations and actions which can be usually booked strong throughout peak season is likely to be extra accessible in September. This permits for higher flexibility in itinerary planning and may result in value financial savings.
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A Extra Tranquil Expertise
The quieter ambiance in September contributes to a extra tranquil and immersive expertise of Costa Rica’s pure magnificence. Widespread mountaineering trails, waterfalls, and seashores are sometimes much less congested, permitting guests to attach with the atmosphere on a deeper stage. As an illustration, exploring the Arenal Volcano space with fewer crowds permits for a extra peaceable appreciation of its majestic presence.
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Supporting Native Companies Through the Shoulder Season
Touring throughout September gives a chance to assist native companies throughout a much less busy interval. This could contribute positively to the native financial system and foster extra significant interactions with Costa Rican communities. Moreover, companies might supply particular offers or promotions to draw guests throughout the inexperienced season, offering extra worth for vacationers.
The correlation between September’s climate and lowered crowds gives distinct benefits for vacationers looking for a extra intimate and fewer commercialized expertise of Costa Rica. Whereas the elevated rainfall requires preparation, the advantages of fewer crowds, mixed with the plush landscapes and vibrant wildlife, create a novel and rewarding journey expertise throughout the inexperienced season. This dynamic underscores the significance of contemplating climate patterns when planning a visit to Costa Rica, because it considerably influences the general ambiance and alternatives obtainable to guests.
5. Decrease Costs
Decrease costs in Costa Rica throughout September are straight linked to the “inexperienced season” climate patterns. The elevated rainfall, whereas contributing to the nation’s lush landscapes, usually deters some vacationers. This lower in demand results in lowered pricing throughout varied tourism sectors, from lodging and excursions to flights and rental vehicles. Accommodations and resorts typically supply discounted charges and particular packages to draw guests throughout this era. Tour operators might also scale back costs or supply added worth, corresponding to mixed excursions or complimentary actions. For instance, journey excursions like white-water rafting or zip-lining is likely to be provided at a cheaper price level throughout September in comparison with peak season. This presents a big benefit for budget-conscious vacationers looking for to expertise Costa Rica’s pure magnificence and various actions with out the premium price ticket related to the dry season.
The impression of decrease costs extends past particular person vacationers. The lowered prices could make Costa Rica extra accessible to households or bigger teams who would possibly in any other case discover peak season pricing prohibitive. This could stimulate tourism throughout the shoulder season, benefiting native companies and communities. Moreover, the decrease costs can encourage longer stays, permitting vacationers to discover extra of the nation and interact extra deeply with its tradition and atmosphere. As an illustration, a traveler would possibly prolong their journey by just a few days to go to each the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, profiting from the decrease transportation and lodging prices. Nonetheless, it is important to contemplate that whereas costs are typically decrease, some smaller companies or distant lodges would possibly preserve constant pricing all year long resulting from operational prices or restricted capability.
In conclusion, the correlation between decrease costs and September climate in Costa Rica presents a compelling alternative for vacationers. Understanding this dynamic permits for strategic planning and vital value financial savings, making a Costa Rican trip extra accessible and probably extra intensive. Whereas the rain necessitates some changes in exercise planning, the mix of lowered crowds, lush landscapes, and decrease costs creates a novel worth proposition for these keen to embrace the inexperienced season. This underscores the significance of contemplating climate patterns as a key consider journey planning, not simply as a possible obstacle but additionally as a chance for a unique, and infrequently extra reasonably priced, expertise.
6. Humid Circumstances
Excessive humidity is a defining attribute of Costa Rica’s climate in September. This elevated moisture content material within the air is a direct consequence of the prevalent rainfall throughout the “inexperienced season,” mixed with the nation’s tropical local weather and proximity to each the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Heat air holds extra moisture, and the frequent rainfall additional saturates the ambiance. This creates a persistently humid atmosphere, significantly in coastal areas and rainforests. As an illustration, the Osa Peninsula, identified for its dense rainforest, experiences exceptionally excessive humidity ranges all through September. This atmospheric situation performs a vital function in shaping the ecological dynamics and total customer expertise.
The impacts of excessive humidity are multifaceted. It contributes to the plush vegetation that characterizes Costa Rica’s landscapes, fostering the expansion of various flora and supporting wealthy biodiversity. Nonetheless, excessive humidity also can pose challenges for guests unaccustomed to such circumstances. It will possibly result in elevated perspiration, discomfort, and potential dehydration. Acceptable clothes selections, corresponding to light-weight, breathable materials, develop into important. Moreover, excessive humidity can exacerbate the notion of warmth, making bodily exertion really feel extra strenuous. Guests ought to alter their exercise ranges accordingly and keep well-hydrated. Understanding the impression of humidity on perceived temperature is essential for planning out of doors actions. Whereas the precise air temperature is likely to be reasonable, the mix of warmth and humidity can create a a lot hotter sensation. For instance, a temperature of 25C (77F) can really feel considerably hotter with excessive humidity.
In abstract, excessive humidity is an integral element of Costa Rica’s climate in September. It performs a vital function in shaping the nation’s ecological richness and influencing customer experiences. Understanding the causes and results of excessive humidity, in addition to its sensible implications, permits vacationers to organize adequately, adapt their actions, and totally respect the distinctive atmosphere of Costa Rica throughout the inexperienced season. Recognizing the interaction between humidity, temperature, and rainfall gives a extra full understanding of the general climate patterns and their significance in shaping the Costa Rican expertise.
7. Regional Variations
Vital regional variations characterize Costa Rican climate in September. Whereas your entire nation experiences the “inexperienced season,” marked by elevated rainfall, the depth, frequency, and length of precipitation differ significantly throughout areas. These variations are influenced by components corresponding to proximity to coasts, elevation, prevailing wind patterns, and native topography. Understanding these regional nuances is essential for vacationers planning a September journey, as they considerably impression exercise selections and total expertise.
The Caribbean coast, significantly the southern portion, typically receives much less rainfall than the Pacific facet throughout September. That is partly as a result of affect of Caribbean commerce winds and the rain shadow impact created by the central mountain vary. Areas like Puerto Viejo de Talamanca might expertise sunshine and intermittent showers, providing extra alternatives for out of doors actions in comparison with areas like Manuel Antonio on the Pacific coast, which usually see heavier and extra frequent rainfall. Equally, the northern Pacific coast, round Guanacaste, experiences a barely totally different sample, with a transition interval between the wet and dry seasons beginning in September. This typically ends in much less predictable rainfall in comparison with the central and southern Pacific areas. The central highlands, together with areas like San Jos and the encompassing valleys, expertise afternoon showers, although typically much less intense than coastal areas. Increased elevations, corresponding to Monteverde and Cerro de la Muerte, expertise persistent cloud cowl and mist, contributing to the distinctive cloud forest ecosystems but additionally probably limiting visibility.
Recognizing these regional variations empowers vacationers to tailor their itineraries and select locations that align with their most popular climate circumstances and deliberate actions. Consulting detailed regional forecasts turns into important, as relying solely on nationwide averages can result in inaccurate expectations. Moreover, understanding the impression of microclimates inside particular areas provides one other layer of complexity. For instance, even inside a comparatively small space just like the Arenal Volcano area, variations in rainfall patterns can exist resulting from localized topographical options. Subsequently, researching particular locations and looking for up-to-date native climate data are essential for optimizing journey plans and mitigating potential disruptions attributable to surprising climate patterns. This consciousness of regional variations underscores the dynamic nature of Costa Rican climate in September and highlights the significance of preparedness and adaptability when touring throughout the inexperienced season.
8. Important Packing
Packing successfully for Costa Rica in September requires cautious consideration of the “inexperienced season” climate patterns. The mixture of rain, humidity, and variable temperatures necessitates particular clothes and kit selections to make sure consolation and preparedness for various circumstances. Understanding the hyperlink between important packing and September climate is essential for a profitable and pleasurable journey.
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Rain Gear
Rain gear is paramount throughout September in Costa Rica. A light-weight, waterproof jacket and pants are important for navigating afternoon showers and downpours. A water-proof backpack or dry bag protects electronics and different delicate objects. Sturdy, waterproof mountaineering boots are really useful for exploring rainforests and navigating muddy trails. Think about packing a compact umbrella for added comfort in city areas. For instance, exploring the cloud forests of Monteverde requires dependable rain safety to completely benefit from the expertise.
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Moisture-Wicking Clothes
Excessive humidity ranges necessitate clothes selections that prioritize breathability and fast drying. Moisture-wicking materials, corresponding to artificial supplies or merino wool, assist regulate physique temperature and forestall discomfort from perspiration. Packing light-weight, quick-drying shirts, pants, and socks is essential for staying snug in humid circumstances. Avoiding cotton clothes is really useful, because it tends to soak up moisture and dry slowly, probably resulting in chills or pores and skin irritation. This turns into significantly essential for actions corresponding to mountaineering or exploring rainforests.
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Insect Repellent
The humid circumstances and luxurious vegetation in September create an excellent atmosphere for bugs, together with mosquitoes. Packing a robust insect repellent with DEET or picaridin is crucial for shielding towards bites and potential ailments. Making use of repellent frequently, particularly throughout daybreak and nightfall, is essential. Think about packing long-sleeved shirts and pants for added safety, significantly when exploring rainforest areas or taking part in out of doors actions throughout the night.
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Versatile Footwear
Footwear selections ought to contemplate the various terrain and climate circumstances. Waterproof mountaineering boots are important for rainforest hikes and navigating probably muddy trails. Light-weight, breathable sandals or water sneakers are appropriate for seaside visits and water actions. Sturdy strolling sneakers are really useful for exploring city areas and drier areas. For instance, a visit combining rainforest exploration and coastal rest necessitates packing each mountaineering boots and water sneakers to accommodate totally different actions and environments.
These important packing issues straight deal with the challenges and alternatives offered by Costa Rica’s September climate. By packing strategically, vacationers can mitigate the potential inconveniences of rain and humidity whereas maximizing their enjoyment of the nation’s pure magnificence and various actions. Preparedness for variable climate circumstances permits for higher flexibility and ensures a snug and rewarding expertise throughout the inexperienced season.
Continuously Requested Questions on Costa Rican Climate in September
This FAQ part addresses widespread inquiries and potential misconceptions concerning Costa Rican climate in September, offering concise and informative responses to help vacationers in planning their journeys successfully.
Query 1: Does it rain continually in Costa Rica throughout September?
Rainfall in September is frequent however not fixed. Whereas categorised because the “inexperienced” or wet season, precipitation usually happens within the afternoons and evenings, leaving mornings comparatively clear. This sample permits ample alternative for out of doors actions earlier than the standard afternoon showers.
Query 2: Is it nonetheless value visiting Costa Rica in September regardless of the rain?
Completely. September gives distinctive benefits, together with lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and decrease costs. The afternoon rain showers contribute to the colourful surroundings and infrequently improve wildlife exercise. Preparedness for rain permits for a rewarding expertise.
Query 3: Which areas expertise the least rainfall in September?
The southern Caribbean coast usually receives much less rainfall than the Pacific coast throughout September. The northern Pacific coast additionally begins its transition to drier climate, however rainfall patterns may be much less predictable. Regional microclimates considerably affect precipitation ranges.
Query 4: What kind of clothes is really useful for September journey in Costa Rica?
Light-weight, quick-drying clothes is really useful, together with a water-resistant jacket and pants. Sturdy, waterproof mountaineering boots are important for rainforest exploration, whereas breathable sandals or water sneakers are appropriate for coastal actions.
Query 5: How does the rain have an effect on out of doors actions?
Whereas rain can sometimes disrupt out of doors plans, many actions can nonetheless be loved. Morning actions typically happen beneath clear skies. Tour operators usually adapt to climate circumstances, providing various itineraries or rescheduling as wanted. Flexibility and preparedness are key.
Query 6: Are there any particular security issues associated to September climate?
River currents may be stronger in periods of heavy rain. Heeding security advisories from tour operators and native authorities is essential. Highway circumstances will also be affected by rainfall, significantly in much less developed areas. Driving cautiously and permitting further journey time is really useful.
Planning a visit to Costa Rica throughout September requires understanding and making ready for the particular climate circumstances. Flexibility and acceptable packing are key to a profitable and pleasurable expertise.
The next sections will present additional detailed data on particular locations and actions, providing sensible suggestions for navigating Costa Rica’s inexperienced season.
Ideas for Navigating Costa Rican Climate in September
Efficiently navigating Costa Rica’s distinct September climate requires proactive planning and adaptableness. The following pointers supply sensible steerage for maximizing enjoyment and minimizing potential disruptions attributable to variable circumstances.
Tip 1: Pack Versatile Layers: Temperatures can fluctuate all through the day, particularly with the interaction of rain and humidity. Packing layers permits adaptation to altering circumstances. Combining a light-weight, waterproof outer layer with moisture-wicking base layers gives optimum consolation and safety.
Tip 2: Embrace Early Mornings: Mornings usually supply the clearest skies and most predictable climate. Scheduling key out of doors actions, corresponding to mountaineering, zip-lining, or wildlife viewing, for the morning maximizes alternatives and minimizes potential rain disruptions. This permits full benefit of daytime earlier than the widespread afternoon showers.
Tip 3: Monitor Localized Forecasts: Regional microclimates considerably affect climate patterns. Relying solely on nationwide forecasts may be deceptive. Consulting localized climate sources gives extra correct and related data for particular locations, enabling knowledgeable choices about day by day actions.
Tip 4: Schedule Downtime for Wet Intervals: Afternoon rains are a daily prevalence. Planning for downtime throughout these intervals permits for rest, indoor actions, or just having fun with the tranquil ambiance. This prevents frustration from disrupted plans and maximizes total enjoyment.
Tip 5: Select Lodging Strategically: Deciding on lodging with coated out of doors areas, corresponding to balconies or patios, permits for continued enjoyment of the pure environment even throughout rainfall. Indoor facilities, corresponding to swimming pools or sport rooms, can additional improve the expertise in periods of inclement climate.
Tip 6: Waterproof Important Objects: Defending electronics, paperwork, and different delicate objects from rain is essential. Using waterproof baggage or instances safeguards towards water harm. This straightforward precaution prevents vital inconvenience and potential lack of beneficial objects.
Tip 7: Be Versatile with Itineraries: Climate circumstances may be unpredictable. Sustaining flexibility with itineraries permits for changes based mostly on real-time climate updates. This adaptability maximizes alternatives and minimizes disruptions, making certain a smoother and extra pleasurable journey.
Tip 8: Analysis Regional Transportation Choices: Rainfall can have an effect on street circumstances, particularly in much less developed areas. Researching transportation choices prematurely, contemplating options corresponding to 4×4 automobiles or home flights, permits for knowledgeable choices and mitigates potential journey disruptions.
These proactive measures guarantee preparedness for variable circumstances and permit vacationers to completely respect Costa Rica’s pure magnificence and various actions, even throughout the inexperienced season. Adaptability and knowledgeable planning are important for maximizing the September expertise.
The concluding part will summarize key takeaways and supply ultimate suggestions for experiencing the distinctive attraction of Costa Rica throughout September.
Climate in September
Costa Rican climate in September presents a novel set of circumstances for vacationers. Characterised by the “inexperienced season,” this era gives a definite expertise in comparison with the height dry season. Plentiful rainfall contributes to the nation’s famously lush landscapes, supporting vibrant ecosystems and various wildlife. Whereas afternoon showers are widespread, they’re typically balanced by clear mornings, offering alternatives for a variety of actions. The lowered crowds and decrease costs related to September create a beautiful choice for budget-conscious vacationers and people looking for a extra tranquil expertise. Understanding regional variations in rainfall is essential for efficient itinerary planning. The Caribbean coast usually experiences much less rain than the Pacific, whereas greater elevations encounter persistent cloud cowl and mist. Packing appropriately, with emphasis on rain gear and moisture-wicking clothes, is crucial for consolation and preparedness.
Climate in September shapes the Costa Rican expertise, providing each challenges and rewards. Embracing the dynamic circumstances, planning accordingly, and specializing in the distinctive benefits of the inexperienced seasonlush surroundings, fewer crowds, and decrease costsallows for a satisfying and memorable journey expertise. This era invitations exploration of a unique facet of Costa Rica, one characterised by vibrant pure magnificence and a tranquil immersion in its wealthy ecosystems.
