Unsettled weather conditions continue to affect much of Panama this Monday, with significant rainfall expected on both the Caribbean and Pacific slopes. The Panamanian Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology reported that showers and downpours began in the early morning hours and will persist through the first part of the day, particularly impacting the Caribbean region. This persistent pattern underscores a broader weather vigilance notice that remains active across the nation.
Regional Forecast Details and Potential Hazards
On the Caribbean slope, afternoon downpours could intensify in sectors of the Guna Yala mountain range and Colon province. These storms carry a possibility of electrical discharges, posing an additional risk. Meteorological officials do not rule out new episodes of rain over maritime zones during the night, which could then advance toward coastal areas. Residents in low-lying and flood-prone regions are urged to maintain constant caution.
“The conditions require prudence in areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides,” a spokesperson for the Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology stated. [Translated from Spanish] “We advise the public to follow official communications regarding weather conditions and to remember the vigilance notice issued until November 12.”
The Pacific slope will experience a similar, though slightly less intense, pattern. Isolated downpours are forecast for maritime zones during the early morning and morning. As the day progresses, rainfall will concentrate in specific areas of Chiriqui, southern Veraguas, the mountainous masses of Azuero, West Panama, Panama, Darien, and the Embera Wounaan region. Nighttime could bring a repetition of rains over southern Veraguas, eastern Panama, and Darien.
Temperature, Wind, and Maritime Conditions
Temperature ranges across the country present a typical tropical profile. Minimum temperatures will oscillate between 16 and 24 degrees Celsius. Maximums are expected to reach 29 to 32 degrees on the Pacific side, a slightly cooler 28 to 30 degrees on the Caribbean, and 23 to 25 degrees in the Central Mountain Range. These conditions are consistent with the ongoing rainy season, where cloud cover moderates the heat.
Wind patterns will feature predominant West-Northwest, West, and Southwest flows. Sustained wind speeds should remain between 10 and 25 kilometers per hour. Mariners are advised to exercise care due to specific sea conditions. The Caribbean coastline will see waves between 0.6 and 1.2 meters high, with periods of 6 to 8 seconds. Wave heights in the Pacific are forecast to be slightly higher, reaching 0.9 to 1.4 meters with longer periods of 14 to 16 seconds.
Health Advisory for Ultraviolet Radiation
A key health advisory concerns the Ultraviolet index levels. The UV-B radiation indices will remain between moderate and high across the entire country. Reported values will range from 05 to 08. This necessitates protective measures for anyone spending time outdoors. Authorities strongly recommend the use of sunscreen with a high protection factor. They also advise avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun during the central hours of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most direct and damaging.
Panama’s National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc) continues to operate under a state of alert. This posture is a direct response to the active weather vigilance notice. The coordinated effort between meteorological services and civil protection aims to minimize risks associated with the persistent rains. The situation demands ongoing public attention to official updates as the week progresses.