Surfer Drowns at Punta Barco

Saturday, July 29th, at 9:00 a.m. a surfer drowned at Punta Barco in Panama West. Panama’s National Civil Protection System (SINAPROC) recovered the lifeless body and extended a previously issued wave alert. The warning that had been issued July 26th, 2017, originally ended on July 30th, was extended until August 2nd. 

“Despite our recommendations, a surfer was found lifeless today at 9:00 a.m. on Playa Punta Barco,” said Sinaproc director José Donderis.

The waves have been big along Panama’s Pacific coast this past week, and waves will continue with some reaching two meters high with in the Gulf of Panama, the Bay of Panama and the coasts of Darien, Cocle, Herrera, Panama, and West Panama. In Los Santos, the Gulf of Chiriquí and the south of Veraguas, the waves will be between two and three meters.

“We call on all Panamanians and foreigners on the Pacific beaches to follow our recommendations said Donderis on Twitter. Sinaproc recommends keeping an eye on the notices issued by the authorities and “paying special attention” to sudden sea level rise and the presence of high and frequent waves.

If you are a surfer or plan to surf in Panama be cautious of rip currents and tide levels. It is always a good idea to surf with a friend and not to enter the water in conditions that are beyond your comfort level.