Panama can expect a largely dry but hot morning on Wednesday, followed by isolated afternoon downpours and possible thunderstorms, according to the latest forecast from the Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology of Panama.
A separate IMHPA watch for rain and electrical storms remains in effect across large parts of the country until 11:59 p.m. on September 23.
No significant rainfall is expected along the Caribbean slope during the morning. Clouds should increase during the afternoon, bringing intermittent rain and isolated downpours to Bocas del Toro, northern areas of the Ngäbe-Buglé comarca and Veraguas. Thunderstorms and localized wind gusts are possible. Shorter showers may develop elsewhere before conditions improve at night.
The Pacific slope should also remain mostly dry through the morning, with partly cloudy to clear skies. Hot conditions will alternate with isolated showers and possible thunderstorms during the afternoon, particularly in Chiriquí, the Ngäbe-Buglé comarca, Veraguas and mountainous areas of Azuero and Coclé.
Rain of varying intensity may continue over Chiriquí and the Gulf of Chiriquí during the evening before gradually weakening. No significant nighttime rainfall is forecast for most other areas.
Maximum temperatures are expected to reach between 29°C and 34°C along the Pacific and between 29°C and 31°C on the Caribbean coast. Temperatures in the Central Mountain Range should remain between 20°C and 25°C.
Winds will generally remain between 5 and 20 kilometres per hour. Waves on both coasts are forecast at approximately 0.6 to one metre.
Maximum ultraviolet radiation levels will range from very high to extreme, with an index of 8 to 11 or above. People outdoors should limit prolonged sun exposure and use appropriate protection.
Sources: Instituto de Meteorología e Hidrología de Panamá (IMHPA)
