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<\/figure>\r\nIs El Ni\u00f1o a phenomenon or an event? That was the question that brought together experts from the Panama Canal, the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI), and Panama\u2019s Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (IMHPA) on Thursday to examine the effects of this climate variability on Panama and the region.<\/p>\r\n
The Panama Canal\u2019s Roberto F. Chiari Library was the site of the discussion, \u201cEvent or Phenomenon: The Impact of El Ni\u00f1o in Panama,\u201d which provided a forum for experts to examine the causes, effects, and challenges associated with El Ni\u00f1o and its impact on the country.<\/p>\r\n
\u201cEl Ni\u00f1o represents one of the greatest challenges for water management. It\u2019s a resource that not only makes Panama Canal operations possible but also ensures the supply of drinking water for millions of Panamanians. In response to this reality, our decisions are grounded in decades of hydrological data, scientific knowledge, and lessons learned, further strengthened through collaboration with institutions such as the Smithsonian and IMHPA,\u201d said Luis Rovira, Vice President for Water Resources Management, at the opening of the event.’<\/p>\r\n
\u201cBy combining science, research, and operational experience, we have developed a better understanding of our watershed and the effects of climate variability. This enables us to anticipate changing conditions and make informed, timely, and responsible decisions to protect the country\u2019s water security while maintaining the reliable service the canal provides to Panama and global maritime trade,\u201d Rovira added.<\/p>\r\n
Steve Paton, STRI\u2019s Director of Physical Monitoring, described El Ni\u00f1o as contributing to an \u201cunusual year,\u201d in which the dry season experienced exceptionally high rainfall while the rainy season faces a precipitation deficit. \u201cIt is a year marked by uncertainty, due to a particularly intense El Ni\u00f1o that continues to strengthen,\u201d he said.<\/p>\r\n
Luz Graciela de Calzadilla, Director of IMHPA, warned that forecasts point to a very strong El Ni\u00f1o event that could initiate the start of the dry season in the second half of November. She explained that its effects could be felt across key sectors, including agriculture, power generation, public health, and the supply of drinking water.<\/p>\r\n
November is a critical month for the Panama Canal and for more than half of Panama\u2019s population. Historically, it is the wettest month of the year in the Panama Canal Watershed, and provides sufficient rainfall needed to replenish the lakes that support canal\u2019s operations and ensure drinking water supplies for more than half of the country during the dry season.<\/p>\r\n
Gloria Arrocha and Ayax Murillo, members of the Panama Canal\u2019s Water Resources Management team, explained the continuous monitoring and analysis conducted to assess climate conditions and lake levels. The information is critical input for decision-making and for implementing the canal\u2019s water and operational strategies, enabling it to respond promptly to adverse climate scenarios.<\/p>\r\n
The Panama Canal continues to closely monitor the evolution of El Ni\u00f1o and its potential effects on the watershed\u2019s water resources. As part of the measures implemented since late 2025, the canal has introduced initiatives that optimize the use of water in its operations.<\/p>\r\n
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