Reporting on climate, conservation, and ecological issues in Panama. We highlight scientific findings, policy responses, and community sustainability efforts.
The Gulf of Panama’s seasonal upwelling failed in 2025 for the first time in at least four decades, a rare disruption with consequences for marine life and coastal waters. Scientists say the loss of cool, nutrient-rich waters could affect ecosystems and fisheries.
Panama City hosted a regional UNCCD capacity-building workshop bringing together Caribbean and Latin American countries to improve national environmental reporting. The meeting focused on stronger institutional capacity and greater ownership of reporting processes.
Residents of El Clavel in Arraiján say they have gone more than a month without water, forcing families to spend more on basic needs. They are urging IDAAN to restore service as the problem worsens.
Panama City has launched a school recycling plan that will reach more than 12,000 students and expand to 180 schools. The initiative aims to strengthen environmental habits in classrooms and beyond.
Panama’s firefighters have responded to 883 traffic accidents nationwide so far this year, with speeding, distraction, alcohol, fatigue, and mechanical failures among the main causes. The figures highlight the ongoing road safety challenge facing drivers and families across the country.
Panama City and the Ernesto Córdoba Campos local board delivered materials to IDAAN for a pipeline project meant to ease long-running water shortages in four neighborhoods. Crews have already begun installing sections of the 900-meter line.
Panama commemorated 25 years of the commission that coordinates protection of the Canal watershed, a key area for water supply, biodiversity and Canal operations. The milestone highlights the country’s long-term commitment to managing one of its most strategic natural resources.
Heavy rain and high tide flooded the Matador Tejada High Performance Center in Juan Díaz, prompting PANDEPORTES to review possible project failures. The incident has renewed attention on drainage and flood risks in Panama City.
Panama is facing an 85% chance of El Niño, and meteorologists say the country could enter an alert phase within two weeks. The warning raises concerns for rainfall, water supply, and the Panama Canal.
Panama has been placed under a rain and storm alert through May 4, with authorities warning of possible flooding in affected areas. Residents are being urged to stay informed and take basic safety precautions.
Panama’s Pacific coast has failed to produce its usual seasonal upwelling for the first time in about 40 years, raising concerns about marine life and fisheries. Scientists say the missing cold-water surge could signal broader changes in the tropical eastern Pacific.
Panama’s agricultural authorities are pushing an agroindustrial diversification plan in Bocas del Toro while activating national protocols ahead of El Niño. The strategy aims to strengthen climate resilience and support rural production.
Panama has issued a nationwide weather watch for rain and thunderstorms, with changing sea conditions also expected in the Caribbean and Pacific. The alert matters for travel, coastal activity, and daily routines across the country.
The Panama Canal is drawing attention for geotechnical vulnerability, highlighting how geology, water supply and maintenance shape the waterway’s long-term reliability. The issue matters for Panama’s economy and global shipping alike.
Water shortages are worsening across Panama, with protests in Colón and complaints from Veraguas, Azuero and the capital region. Aging infrastructure, leaks and climate pressure are intensifying a crisis now affecting both rural and urban communities.
The Panama Canal watershed has become a 25-year model of coordinated water management, helping supply millions of residents while protecting forests and ecosystems. Canal leaders say the approach offers lessons for other parts of the country facing worsening water stress.
Producers in Chiriquí are concerned as El Niño reduces rainfall, creating challenges for agriculture in one of Panama’s key farming provinces.
Azuero’s water emergency is the result of years of pollution, weak oversight, and delayed action. Wells may help in the short term, but only a full watershed recovery plan can solve the crisis.
A plan to widen Vía España in Río Abajo has triggered criticism over the planned removal of about 200 century-old caobo trees. The dispute has reopened debate in Panama City over traffic relief, urban heritage, and tree preservation.
Panama’s coastline is facing mounting pressure from climate-related changes and urban growth, both of which are reducing space along the shore. The challenge is becoming a growing test of how the country manages development and environmental resilience.