Families Ask for Help after Streams Overflow: Floods Affect More than 300 Homes in Almirante Panama
Images captured at the scene show completely flooded streets and homes surrounded by water. Residents moved appliances, motorcycles, and other belongings to higher ground as they watched the water enter their homes.
Bocas del Toro: Heavy rains affecting the province of Bocas del Toro caused flooding in at least 300 homes in the Aeropuerto neighborhood, in the district of Almirante, on Friday, after streams and the Niwa River overflowed, according to preliminary reports from the National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc). According to official information, the water reached up to two feet high inside the residences, mainly affecting single-story houses and forcing dozens of families to try to rescue their belongings amid the emergency. Sinaproc teams remain in the area conducting damage assessments to determine the exact number of affected families and coordinate the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Streets Turned into Rivers
Images captured at the scene show completely flooded streets and homes surrounded by water. Residents moved appliances, motorcycles, and other belongings to higher ground as they watched the water enter their homes. Rescue personnel are also carrying out priority evacuations of children, the elderly, and pets, while those affected urgently request drinking water, food, dry clothes, and mattresses. According to a News correspondent in Bocas del Toro, the Nigua River and several streams that converge in the area overflowed again after the intense rains. According to reports, authorities had previously warned that the Aeropuerto neighborhood is prone to flooding; however, many families continue to live there. In addition to homes, businesses and hardware stores also reported losses due to flooding.
Rain Watch Continues
The Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology of Panama (IMHPA) and Sinaproc maintain a watch alert due to atmospheric instability generated by low pressure systems and the passage of two tropical waves over the country. Authorities warn of the risk of:
- Flash floods of rivers and streams.
- Floods and waterlogging.
- Landslides in vulnerable areas.
- Falling trees and objects.
The highest probability of rain continues to be concentrated in Bocas del Toro, the Ngäbe-Buglé region and other areas in the west of the country. Sinaproc recommends that the public stay alert to official announcements, avoid crossing flooded areas or swollen rivers, and report any emergencies to the appropriate authorities.
