Intense Rains Cause Landslides, Collapsed Homes, and Fatalities Across Panama

Heavy rains battering Panama since Saturday morning have triggered widespread devastation, leading to landslides, structural collapses, and the tragic death of a child.

The most severe incident occurred in the Finca 4 sector of Changuinola, Bocas del Toro province, where a 12-year-old girl and her pet were buried and killed by a landslide. Bocas del Toro and the Naso Tjër Di territory are bearing the brunt of the damage, with saturated soil causing numerous landslides that have blocked key roads in areas like Finca 4, Loma Bonita, and Bonyik. Fallen trees have also obstructed routes, and authorities have opened five temporary shelters in Changuinola to house 436 displaced individuals from 129 families.

In Panama province, emergency services responded to numerous incidents, particularly in San Miguelito. Corregimientos like Ernesto Córdoba Campos reported collapsed structures, detached roofs, and overflowing streams. Belisario Frías saw roofs blown off and trees fall onto homes and power lines. Arnulfo Arias Madrid and Belisario Porras experienced roof damage and electrical system issues. Further incidents included a tree falling on a house in San Joaquín (Juan Díaz) and another landslide in Santa Librada (Alcalde Díaz).

The western province of Panamá Oeste also experienced disruptions, with emergency crews clearing fallen trees and branches causing minor property damage in La Chorrera. Meanwhile, in Colón province, a landslide completely destroyed a home in El Valle, Limón, prompting the evacuation of two neighboring families due to the risk of further collapses. Firefighters, Sinaproc, and local authorities are coordinating assistance for the affected Ortega family.

Authorities have issued a weather advisory in effect until July 6, urging the public to exercise extreme caution. Citizens are strongly advised against visiting rivers, beaches, swimming areas, or mountain trails throughout the weekend due to the ongoing adverse weather conditions.