Panama under weather alert as heavy rains threaten floods and landslides

Panama is under a weather alert as significant rainfall and storms are expected to affect much of the country through September 3. The National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc) has issued a prevention notice covering the Caribbean and Pacific slopes, as well as maritime sectors.

The meteorological instability is driven by tropical wave number 42, high humidity levels, and low-pressure systems. Authorities warn of risks including flash floods, landslides, electrical storms, and strong wind gusts.

Critical areas identified include southern Veraguas, the Azuero Peninsula, Darien, Colon, and the Bocas del Toro islands. Saturated soils in regions like Veraguas increase the danger of landslides even during moderate rainfall. The Emergency Operations Center is maintaining continuous monitoring of these vulnerable zones.