In Coclé, Panama, the lack of canalization is worsening coastal erosion and increasing the risk of flooding in the Juan Hombrón community. This issue has become particularly urgent following recent drownings at the local beach. The local development board has called on the Ministry of Environment (MiAmbiente) and the National System of Civil Protection (Sinaproc) to urgently intervene and carry out channeling works at the mouth of the Chico River. According to them, the current river course is altering the beach's dynamics, accelerating the retreat of the coastline, and leaving the community more exposed to storm surges and heavy rains. Water stagnation and blockages at the river mouth are causing recurrent flooding. The board warns that the problem threatens not only homes and infrastructure but also the local economy, especially residents dependent on tourism and commerce linked to the beach. In terms of safety, community leaders alert that the current configuration of the river and its mouth is creating dangerous currents for bathers. They recalled that on March 15, 2026, a 64-year-old man and a 45-year-old woman drowned while visiting the area.
