Scattered thunderstorms are expected across both sides of Panama on Monday, October 12, with saturated ground increasing the risk of rising waterways and landslides in several regions.
The Instituto de Meteorología e Hidrología de Panamá issued Forecast Update No. 1 at 12:44 a.m. The bulletin was prepared by forecaster Julissa Rivera.
On the Caribbean slope, thunderstorms moving inland from coastal waters are expected to affect Colón, northern Veraguas and Ngäbe-Buglé during the early hours. Morning rain should extend from Bocas del Toro to Costa Abajo de Colón, followed by more isolated precipitation during the afternoon and evening.
Pacific areas can expect morning showers around Darién, southern Veraguas, the Azuero Peninsula and other coastal districts. More widespread afternoon thunderstorms are forecast for Chiriquí, Veraguas, western Coclé, Azuero and Darién, with isolated activity elsewhere. Rain may continue into the evening.
Maximum temperatures will range from 27°C to 31°C across most of the country and from 20°C to 24°C in the Central Cordillera. Minimum temperatures in the mountains could fall to 13°C.
Winds may reach 35 km/h around Pacific coastal and maritime areas. Waves are forecast at up to 1.5 metres in the Caribbean and 1.6 metres in the Pacific.
IMHPA recommends caution along the Pacific coast because of higher waves and rip currents. Soil saturation exceeds 65% in parts of western and central Panama, Panamá province and the eastern Caribbean, increasing the possibility of swollen rivers, streams and landslides.
Sources: Instituto de Meteorología e Hidrología de Panamá (IMHPA)
