Panama declares preventive alert over potential El Niño effects

The Panamanian government has declared a state of preventive alert in anticipation of the potential impacts of the El Niño climate phenomenon. A high-level inter-institutional commission has been convened to closely monitor the situation and coordinate necessary preventive measures across various sectors.

The commission held its inaugural meeting on July 15, 2026, at the Ministry of Government. Participants agreed to remain in permanent session, holding weekly meetings to assess the phenomenon's evolution and harmonize responses. The meeting included ministers from the Presidency, Government, Environment, and Acting Minister of Agricultural Development, along with representatives from Health, Economy and Finance, and the Canal Affairs ministries.

Officials received a report detailing El Niño's behavior and its climate outlook for July to December 2026. The forecast suggests a potential decrease in rainfall across the Pacific coast regions, possibly accompanied by an earlier or extended dry season, which could lead to drought conditions. The government aims to mitigate the impact on water supply, agricultural production, public services, and other vulnerable areas.

Representatives from the National Public Services Authority (ASEP), the Hydrometeorology Institute of Panama (IMHPA), the National Institute of Aqueductions and Sewerage (IDAAN), the National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc), the Fire Department, the Directorate of Local Governments, and the Agricultural Marketing Institute (IMA) are also part of the commission. This broad participation underscores the government's commitment to a coordinated and comprehensive approach to managing the potential crisis.