El Niño phenomenon reduces water levels in Panama's Dry Arch region, Idaan warns

The director of Panama's National Institute of Aqueducts and Sewerage (Idaan), Antonio Tercero González, has confirmed that the El Niño phenomenon is significantly impacting water sources in the Dry Arch region. This climate event is directly affecting the water supply for the provinces of Coclé and the Azuero Peninsula.

González stated that the intensity of El Niño has caused a notable reduction in surface water flows and well levels. In response, Idaan is developing an immediate contingency strategy to ensure potable water availability. The institution's priority is to find sustainable solutions on the ground rather than relying solely on emergency water distribution to affected communities.

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We are already seeing very low flows, especially in the water treatment plants in the Azuero and Coclé areas, as well as low well levels.

"We are already seeing very low flows, especially in the water treatment plants in the Azuero and Coclé areas, as well as low well levels," warned Tercero González. While water tanker distribution will remain an emergency option, technical efforts are focused on exploiting new underground sources. "We are evaluating other well drillings and aquifers that have not yet been tapped," he added.

In contrast, water levels for the capital city remain stable. Javier Sánchez, superintendent of the Chilibre Water Treatment Plant, reported that the raw water levels in Lake Alajuela, the primary source for Panama City, are above the usual average for this time of year, offering a providential buffer against the drought affecting other regions.

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We are evaluating other well drillings and aquifers that have not yet been tapped.