14 Nov 2022 | 12:56 PM UTC
Panama: Adverse weather forecast nationwide through at least Nov. 21
Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall forecast across Panama through at least Nov. 21. Flooding and disruptions possible.
Event
Adverse weather is forecast across most of Panama through at least Nov. 21. Panama's Hydrometeorological Service has issued a warning notice advising of moderate to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across the country through Nov. 14 due to the presence of a tropical wave over the county. Rainfall accumulations of 2-8 cm (1-3 inches) per day are forecast, with locally heavier rainfall possible in mountainous areas. A separate alert for scattered-to-strong showers has been issued early Nov. 14 for Bocas del Toro, Ngabe-Bugle, northern and southern Veraguas, the Costa Abajo region of Colon, Chiriqui, Los Santos, and Darien provinces. Further showers and storms are forecast across the country over the coming days. The heavy rain could result in floods and flash floods in urban or low-lying areas. Landslides are also possible. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Heavy rainfall in recent days has caused flooding and related disruptions in many parts of the country. The worst affected area has been the Azuero Peninsula, where authorities have declared a regional emergency. Heavy rainfall in parts of Herrera, Los Santos, and Veraguas provinces Nov. 9-10 caused river levels to rise in the area and the resultant flooding has damaged hundreds of homes in the region. Flood-related disruptions were also reported in Panama City Nov. 13 and authorities in Colon Province rescued 11 people from the flooded Piedra River in Maria Chiquita. The National Civil Protection System (SINAPROC) is maintaining green emergency alerts (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across the country as of early Nov. 14, having lifted yellow alerts across the Azuero Peninsula late Nov. 13.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall occur could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, landslides, or strong winds impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows could render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger intermittent flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region, including Tocumen International Airport (PTY), though these are unlikely to be severe or prolonged. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation. Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential delivery delays if routing shipments by truck through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
