Panama to experience heat, isolated showers, and strong UV radiation on Saturday, according to Meteorology Institute

Panamanians are advised to brace for a day of contrasting weather conditions on Saturday, May 16, as the Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (Imhpa) forecasts daytime heating coupled with isolated showers and notably high UV radiation across the country.

The Pacific coast will experience a progressive increase in temperatures from the morning, creating an unstable atmosphere conducive to afternoon showers and thunderstorms. These are expected to be more active in regions bordering Costa Rica, southern Veraguas, Panama North, Darién, and the Emberá-Wounaan comarca. Imhpa warns that some of these events could intensify, bringing moderate to heavy rain, electrical activity, and gusty winds.

Meanwhile, the Caribbean coast will endure a more variable pattern, characterized by persistent cloudiness, especially in the central and eastern sectors. Showers of maritime origin are anticipated throughout much of the morning, from Costa Abajo de Colón to the coasts of Bocas del Toro. This humid flow is expected to increase cloud cover and the likelihood of isolated downpours in Guna Yala, Colón, and northern Veraguas during the afternoon.

Temperatures are expected to range between 26°C and 33°C, with slightly higher readings possible in lower-altitude areas. Winds will generally be variable, but gusts could accompany rainfall. Maritime conditions will also differ, with waves around 1.20 meters on the Pacific and up to 2.20 meters on the Caribbean, necessitating caution. The Imhpa also highlighted that UV radiation levels will remain high to extreme, between 7 and 12, urging the public to take preventive measures.