Reporting on climate, conservation, and ecological issues in Panama. We highlight scientific findings, policy responses, and community sustainability efforts.
Panama’s seasonal ocean current has disappeared after four decades, raising concerns about shifts in the Pacific waters that help define the country’s dry season. The change underscores how climate and marine patterns are evolving around the isthmus.
Authorities in Colón are monitoring a possible agrochemical inhalation incident after containers labeled aluminum phosphide were found near homes. The case underscores the risks of improper pesticide storage in residential areas.
Panama’s mobility crisis is worsening as traffic, fragmented transport and weak planning strain daily life. Metro expansion and better integration could help, but only if the country shifts to a more coordinated model.
Panama has identified 420 active wastewater pollution points nationwide, including 56 abandoned sites, as authorities intensify inspections and sanctions. Recent checks in Pacora found treatment plants operating, but officials still ordered further adjustments to improve water quality.
Communities in Colón marched against the planned Río Indio reservoir, rejecting relocation tied to the project. The Panama Canal says the dam is essential to Panama’s water security and canal operations.
An inspection in Pacora found no visible contamination or strong odors at wastewater treatment plants that discharge toward the Tataré River. The facilities sit downstream from the raw-water intake in the Pacora river system.
Panama’s Azuero Peninsula is nearing a year under severe water stress, with contaminated rivers, drought, and aging infrastructure forcing families to rely on wells and tankers. The crisis has disrupted daily life, public services, and local economic activity across Herrera and Los Santos.
Hydrophones installed in Isla Iguana are helping strengthen whale conservation in Panama’s Pacific by recording marine life and underwater noise. The technology supports noninvasive monitoring of species movement and human impact.
Panama is forecast to have cloudy skies and showers on both coasts, with moderate wave conditions in the Caribbean and Pacific. The weather pattern could affect travel, outdoor plans, and marine activity.
Azuero’s water crisis is nearing one year, with wells now at the center of Panama’s emergency response. Authorities are also upgrading plants and networks as thousands of families continue relying on tanker trucks and stored water.
Panama’s water crisis in Azuero is now a political test for President José Raúl Mulino, as residents continue to wait for lasting solutions. The government’s messaging on management and appointments has only intensified scrutiny of its long-term planning.
San Francisco has begun sewer expansion work in Coco del Mar and Viña del Mar, bringing phased road closures and detours through December. The $3 million project aims to replace old wastewater lines with higher-capacity pipes.
Panama’s National Assembly environment committee will carry out field visits during the legislative recess after communities complained about collapsed treatment plants and river pollution. The trips are meant to gather direct testimony and assess environmental damage on the ground.
Panama’s Environment Ministry and partners have installed a new hydrophone at Isla Iguana to continue whale monitoring during the June-to-October migration season. The device will help track whale behavior, marine biodiversity, and underwater noise in Los Santos.
Pollution in the Caimito River is threatening water supply in Panama Oeste, with earlier findings identifying at least 10 contamination points along a 9-kilometer stretch. The issue underscores mounting pressure on the province’s water resources.
The Panama Canal Authority suspended operations at a drinking water treatment plant after an electrical failure. The disruption affected a key utility service and prompted the authority to thank users for their understanding.
Panama has stepped up its emergency water response in Azuero, with Idaan reporting 58 wells intervened in 37 days and new supply measures for schools and communities. Health and environment officials say the region’s rivers remain contaminated and the drinking-water warning stays in force.
Panama and the United States will carry out joint jungle and canal-security training with specialized Panamanian forces and U.S. Marines. The drills are tied to Panamax, the multinational operation focused on protecting the Panama Canal.
An electrical failure forced the Miraflores water treatment plant to suspend operations, affecting a key facility in Panama’s infrastructure network. The interruption highlights the importance of reliable power for essential water services.
Panama strengthened protection for the Cenegón del Mangle during Earth Day activities, highlighting the importance of mangrove conservation. The event also honored environmental photographer Tomás Mosquera for his work supporting environmental awareness.