Panama convenes permanent commission to track El Niño impacts

Panama has placed its high-level inter-institutional commission on permanent session to closely monitor the potential adverse effects of the El Niño phenomenon. President José Raúl Mulino issued the directive, leading to the commission's first meeting involving ministers and directors from various government entities.

The commission, created by a cabinet decree, aims to manage the consequences of El Niño. During the initial meeting, officials reviewed projected scenarios and established a roadmap for institutional responsibilities. The goal is to ensure a timely response in areas that may be affected by the climate event.

Luz Graciela de Calzadilla, director of Panama's Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (IMHPA), noted that while the Caribbean region has experienced more intense rainfall, the Pacific coast has seen a decrease. Forecasts suggest El Niño could persist for up to 12 months, potentially reaching its peak intensity in October before gradually subsiding by May next year.

In response, the National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc) urged the public to stay informed and heed official recommendations. Director Omar Smith Gallardo specifically advised residents near hills to be cautious of landslides and to avoid flood-prone areas, including river crossings, for both pedestrians and drivers.