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 40 years, raising concerns about marine health and coastal livelihoods. The event is a major shift in one of Panama’s most important ocean cycles.
A scientific study found that 27% of Panama’s land shows soil degradation, with the greatest impact in agricultural regions such as the Arco Seco and Veraguas. Researchers are urging stronger monitoring and more sustainable farming practices to protect productivity and food security.
Panama’s water crisis in Azuero is drawing sharp criticism as emergency well drilling replaces a long-term solution. The low execution of Idaan’s budget has intensified questions about government management.
Panama’s seasonal upwelling in the Gulf of Panama failed for the first time in about 40 years, interrupting a key Pacific ocean cycle. The change matters for marine ecosystems, fishing, and coastal conditions along the country’s Pacific coast.
Panama’s Pacific coast has lost its usual dry-season upwelling for the first time in 40 years, alarming scientists and fishermen. The change could disrupt marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods.
Panama has abundant rivers and rainfall, but many communities still lack safe drinking water. The deeper crisis is treatment, contamination, and long-running government inaction.
Antonio Tercero González was ratified as director of Idaan after a heated Assembly debate over Panama’s water crisis. Deputies pressed him to improve service, reduce tanker dependence, and restore confidence in the utility.
Extreme heat is becoming a regular challenge in Panama, with Santiago in Veraguas reaching 40°C and humidity worsening conditions. The push for climate adaptation now extends from urban planning to mandatory environmental education.
IDAAN will suspend water service temporarily on April 29 in communities of Panama Norte due to repair work. The interruption is expected to affect daily routines across the northern sector of Panama City.
At least four people were killed and dozens injured after two trains collided in Bekasi, Indonesia, late Monday. Rescue crews pulled survivors from the wreckage near Jakarta.
Residents of Macaracas in Los Santos have gone eight days without potable water and are relying on installed tanks to meet basic needs. The shortage is disrupting daily life and highlighting the strain on local water service.
Authorities removed 500 pounds of plastic from Escudo de Veraguas-Degó in a cleanup that highlighted the pressure facing Panama’s protected island ecosystems. The operation brought together SINAP rangers and the Environmental Police.
Communities near the proposed River Indio reservoir are protesting the Panama Canal Authority plan, saying they reject relocation and want to keep their land. The dispute highlights the tension between canal water needs and local rights.
Panama will join Global Big Day 2026 on May 9, when birdwatchers worldwide will log species through eBird during a 24-hour count. With more than 700 recorded bird species, Panama is among the world’s most biodiverse countries for birds.
A small plane crashed near South Sudan’s capital, Juba, killing all 14 people aboard. Preliminary indications suggest bad weather and low visibility may have contributed.
Panama awarded a renewable energy tender at an average price of $23.86 per MWh, with wind power winning the largest share. The result underscores the country’s push toward competitive clean energy procurement.
At least 42 people were killed in Chad after a dispute over water escalated into reprisal attacks. The army has intervened and the government says the situation is under control.
Panama is starting the day with partly cloudy skies and isolated showers near the Gulf of Panama, but rain and thunderstorms are expected to build by afternoon. Several regions could see stronger storms later in the day.
Somalia’s drought is forcing more than 500,000 people from their homes as shrinking humanitarian funds leave families increasingly at risk of starvation. The crisis is intensifying a major food emergency in the Horn of Africa.
A Panamanian environmental lawyer defended the approved Puerto Barú project and rejected a LYNKER technical opinion as non-scientific and non-compliant with national standards. The dispute adds to ongoing debate over how environmental assessments are used in Panama.