Panama cancels November 5th independence parades nationwide as Tropical Storm Rafael threatens with heavy rains and strong winds across the Caribbean coast.
Panama’s government has announced the suspension of all November 5th patriotic parades throughout the country, including the major celebrations planned in Colón, as Tropical Storm Rafael threatens the Caribbean coast with heavy rains and strong winds.
The announcement came late last night from the President’s Office, following warnings from the National Hurricane Center about the intensification of recent rainfall patterns into Tropical Storm Rafael, with winds exceeding 63 kilometers per hour (39 mph) and potential for further development into a hurricane.
The Panama Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (IMHPA) has forecast severe rainfall in Colón beginning in the early morning hours. “The government’s priority is the safety of our citizens, especially our children,” stated the presidential communication, explaining that the cancellation is a preventive measure to ensure public safety and avoid potential incidents.
. @PresidenciaPma informa que se suspenden los desfiles patrios programados para el día 5 de noviembre en la ciudad de Colón y el resto del país. Esta decisión responde a la advertencia del Centro Nacional de Huracanes, indicó la Ministra de Gobierno desde el COE en Veraguas. pic.twitter.com/SOQGJb778v
— Ministerio de Gobierno de Panamá (@MinGobPma) November 5, 2024
Storm Development
The Tropical Humid Center for Latin America and the Caribbean (CATHALAC) reports that Tropical Cyclone 18, currently positioned north of Panama and Colombia, shows high probability of strengthening into Tropical Storm or Hurricane Rafael in the coming hours.
While Panama is not expected to receive a direct hurricane impact, forecasters predict that if the system intensifies as expected, it could affect Jamaica, Cuba, and the Gulf of Mexico. Regional authorities are advising Central American countries and Mexico to remain vigilant for potential indirect effects of the weather system.
Impact on National Celebrations
The November 5th celebrations hold particular significance in Panama’s Month of the Homeland (Mes de la Patria), commemorating the consolidation of Panama’s separation from Colombia in 1903. The day is traditionally marked with parades and civic ceremonies, particularly in the city of Colón, which played a crucial role in the nation’s independence.
Government officials have indicated they will consider rescheduling the parades once weather conditions improve. The presidency has called for public understanding and urged citizens to stay informed about weather updates and safety recommendations through official channels.
Sinaproc declara Alerta Roja en Colón, Coclé y la comarca Kuna yala
El Sistema Nacional de Protección Civil (Sinaproc) comunica que, ante la formación de la tormenta tropical Rafael, ubicada distante al norte de Panamá y moviéndose hacia Jamaica, se declara alerta roja en las… pic.twitter.com/S2i2MgDOga
— TRAFICOLOGO-1 (@Traficologo1) November 5, 2024
