Panama: Flooding and landslides in Colón province January 5

Event

Flooding and landslides were reported in Colón province on Friday, January 5. As of Friday, over 400 people had been affected by the heavy rainfall and associated flooding since the rain began around 19:00 (local time) on Thursday, January 4. According to the Panamanian National System of Civil Protection (SINAPROC), hundreds of houses were flooded in communities in the Costa Arriba and Costa Abajo regions of Colón province. Local roads were flooded in the province after rivers overflowed their banks; several streets in the city of Colón were also reportedly flooded by the heavy rainfall as of Friday morning. According to local media reports, among the most affected areas are the communities of Salud, Río Indio, and Icacal, from where several people were evacuated to the Icacal school. As of Friday, no casualties had yet been reported.

Additional rainfall is expected in the affected areas through Sunday, January 7; further flooding and landslides, as well as consequent transportation disruptions, are also expected in Colón province in the coming days.

Context

Flooding and landslides are relatively common during Panama's long rainy season, which typically extends from March until December.

Advice

Individuals present in Colón province and surrounding areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, to avoid areas directly affected by flooding, and to adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.

Remember that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous; 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult. Additionally, because floodwater may also contain wastewater or chemical products, all items having come into contact with the water should be washed and disinfected and any foodstuffs discarded.