Panama issues rain and storm warning through September 3

Panama’s National Civil Protection System has issued a nationwide prevention warning for rain and thunderstorms through 11:59 p.m. on September 3, 2026.

The warning covers provinces and indigenous territories on both the Caribbean and Pacific slopes, as well as the country’s two maritime areas. Panama’s Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology reported a high level of atmospheric instability linked to the movement of Tropical Wave 42, elevated humidity and the activation of low-pressure systems.

Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected over the next 72 hours. The western Pacific region, southern Veraguas and the mountainous areas of the Azuero Peninsula are identified as the most critical zones. Rain is also forecast for southern Darién and Panama, Costa Arriba and central Colón, the northern coast of Veraguas, Ngäbe-Buglé and the islands of Bocas del Toro.

Authorities urged residents to prepare for sudden river rises, landslides, urban and rural flooding, thunderstorms and wind gusts. They advised people not to cross rivers, streams or flooded areas when water levels rise, to stay away from landslide-prone areas, and to avoid standing under trees or metal structures during electrical storms. Residents were also told to secure objects that winds could move.

The Emergency Operations Center continues to monitor weather conditions. In an emergency, residents can call 520-4426 or 911.