Panama’s National Civil Protection System reported three drowning deaths during its Carnival 2026 safety operations. The fatalities occurred in separate coastal provinces over the holiday weekend, prompting renewed safety warnings from authorities.
The agency, known as Sinaproc, confirmed the deaths as part of its “Guardianes 2026” safety initiative. Officials recorded nine successful water rescues alongside the tragic losses. The incidents underscore persistent risks at popular recreational sites during major holidays.
In an official statement, Sinaproc linked the deaths to a lack of supervision and disregard for safety protocols. The agency’s data shows tens of thousands of people visited beaches and rivers during the four-day operation. “These regrettable events reinforce the call for permanent supervision of minors and for extreme safety measures in rivers and swimming areas,” the agency stated. [Translated from Spanish]
Emergency crews responded to hundreds of incidents nationwide. The National Civil Protection System (Panama) coordinated with border units and firefighters to patrol fifty high-traffic locations.
Details of the Fatal Incidents
A young boy died in Coclé province at the Aguas Blancas swimming area. The child was eight years old. In Chiriquí province, rescue teams recovered the body of a 45-year-old man at Charco Las Lajas in Gualaca district. He had been reported missing after entering the water on Sunday.
The third victim was a five-year-old child found without vital signs in Veraguas province. The incident occurred at La Toma de Agua in the Santiago district. Firefighters and Sinaproc personnel attempted resuscitation maneuvers without success.
Each case involved different circumstances but shared the same tragic outcome. Authorities have not released the identities of the victims pending family notifications.
Successful Rescues and Massive Public Turnout
While dealing with fatalities, emergency teams performed nine successful aquatic rescues. Three rescues took place in Nueva Gorgona, Panama Oeste. Another six occurred on Chiriquí province beaches, including Playa Estero Rico and Playa Los Olivos.
In all cases, the individuals were brought to safety. Our personnel remain vigilant,
a Sinaproc operations coordinator noted. [Translated from Spanish] The agency’s report highlighted the sheer scale of public movement during Carnival. Over 33,500 people were counted at monitored beaches and rivers from February 14 to 17.
Attendance at official “culecos,” or water festivals, was significantly higher. More than 126,800 people attended these events at ten national coverage points. Tuesday, February 17, saw the largest single-day turnout with nearly 59,000 attendees.
Authorities Issue Stern Water Safety Reminder
The consecutive drowning deaths have amplified official concerns. Prevention messages now carry greater urgency. Sinaproc’s report serves as a stark reminder that fun can turn fatal in seconds near water.
Experts consistently warn that drowning is often quick and silent. It can happen even in shallow water and during crowded events. Children are particularly vulnerable without constant, attentive supervision.
Panama’s Benemérito Fire Department supported the massive operation. Their units responded to 598 emergencies and conducted over 3,500 inspections. The fire service deployed 171 operational resources and 1,286 personnel across the country.
Sinaproc concluded its statement with a direct appeal to the public. Officials urged citizens to maintain prevention measures, especially during aquatic activities. They also stressed the importance of heeding recommendations from security personnel to avoid further tragedies.