Panama declares nationwide emergency over El Nino risks

PANAMA CITY - Panama's government on Tuesday declared a nationwide state of emergency over the climate impacts of El Nino, citing risks of drought, floods and possible effects on Panama Canal shipping, agriculture and energy supply.

In a statement, the government said the Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology of Panama (IMHPA) forecast that El Nino would strengthen from October this year through March 2027, with below-average rainfall expected in some areas and its impacts likely to last until May.

High temperatures and reduced rainfall could strain water resources and hurt agricultural production, the statement said.

The government warned that drought could lower water levels in rivers, lakes and reservoirs, potentially threatening vessel transits through the Panama Canal and the water supply needed for canal operations. Hydropower generation could also be affected.

Luz Graciela de Calzadilla, director of IMHPA, said 11 watersheds in Panama were already under water stress, with low river levels creating difficulties for hydropower plants and drinking water treatment facilities.

Omar Smith, director-general of Panama's National Civil Protection System, said El Nino had affected more than 10,000 people nationwide since January this year.

The government said the emergency declaration is intended to strengthen the ability of state institutions to respond to extreme weather and prepare for risks, including floods and landslides in some areas and drought in others.