When will the rainy season start in Panama in 2026?

The Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology of Panama (Imhpa) announced the 2026 rainy season in Panama will begin later than usual, with an estimated delay of up to three weeks in some regions.

Imhpa explained that the rainy season is not determined by isolated rainfall, but by technical criteria that confirm a sustained change in climatic conditions. This prediction is based on typical weather patterns observed between mid-April and early May in previous years.

These parameters include the accumulation of rainfall for five consecutive days and the continuity of precipitation, without prolonged dry intervals after the first events.

According to the schedule released, the transition from the dry season to the rainy season will occur progressively across the national territory.

Rainfall has been recorded in Chiriquí, the south of the Ngäbe Buglé region, and central Veraguas. The rainy season is expected between May 1st and 15th, in Southern Veraguas. Between May 11th and 20th, reaching East Panama and Darien.

For Panama Metro and Panama North, the estimated period is May 16th to 25th.

In Los Santos, it is expected between May 21st and 31st.

Herrera, Coclé, and Panama Oeste, predictions are as late as May 26th and June 5th.

The Imhpa specified that the areas on the Caribbean slope do not present this transition period, because they register frequent rains for much of the year.

Among those regions mentioned are Bocas del Toro, the northern part of the Ngäbe Buglé region, northern Veraguas, Colón, and Guna Yala.

Source: La Prensa