Imhpa issues warning for tropical wave passage until August 6

Panama's Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (Imhpa) has issued a vigilance alert for heavy rains and thunderstorms, effective from August 5 through August 6. The alert highlights Bocas del Toro, Ngäbe-Buglé, and Chiriquí as areas facing the highest risk.

According to meteorologist Abdiel Vásquez, an unstable atmosphere is expected across various parts of the country. This is attributed to the abundant moisture left by tropical wave #31, coupled with the activation of Panama's low-pressure system and several troughs. These factors are predicted to intensify rainfall and convective activity.

The forecast indicates variable intensity rainfall, with the most significant accumulations anticipated in the Ngäbe-Buglé region, Bocas del Toro, southern Veraguas, the mountainous areas of the Azuero Peninsula, the Sambú comarca, and Chiriquí. Other regions may experience less intense and more irregular rainfall.

Imhpa warned that the persistent moisture and precipitation could lead to increased soil saturation, particularly in the western Caribbean sectors. This condition raises the risk of rapid rises in river and stream levels, potential localized landslides, and wind gusts associated with storm development.

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The cause: abundant moisture left by the passage of tropical wave #31, added to the activation of Panama's Low Pressure and several troughs, factors that will favor an increase in rainy and convective activity.