Tropical wave No. 36 to trigger intense rains and storms in Panama until Aug. 22

Panama is bracing for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms as Tropical Wave No. 36 is expected to impact the country through August 22. The national civil protection system (Sinaproc) has issued alerts for significant weather events across several regions.

Authorities have specifically warned about the saturated state of soils in western Panama and the Colón province, particularly in the Costa Abajo area. These regions are reported to have soil saturation levels nearing 70%, making them highly vulnerable to flooding and landslides as the tropical wave moves through.

The alert encompasses a broad swathe of the country, from its westernmost areas down to Costa Abajo de Colón and extending to the eastern regions. Residents in these areas are advised to take necessary precautions as the combination of intense rainfall and saturated ground heightens the risk of hydrological and geological emergencies.