Panama issues weather advisory for rain, thunderstorms, and wind through August 24

Panama is under a weather watch for significant rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds, effective from Saturday, August 22, to Monday, August 24. The Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology of Panama (IMHPA) issued the advisory, which encompasses all provinces, indigenous territories (comarcas), and coastal regions along both the Caribbean and Pacific sides of the country. Forecasters anticipate the arrival of Tropical Wave No. 37 will usher in a wetter and more unstable weather period. This phenomenon is expected to activate various atmospheric systems, leading to substantial rain and storms across the nation. The Caribbean region, already experiencing impacts from previous weather events, faces an elevated risk. The IMHPA warned that maximum daily rainfall could reach between 20 and 93 millimeters, with three-day totals estimated between 60 and 280 millimeters. Authorities are cautioning residents about the potential for sudden river rises, landslides in saturated areas, urban and rural flooding, lightning strikes, and strong wind gusts. The public is urged to remain vigilant and follow official safety advisories.