Voices of Change: Raziel from La Chorrera, Panama
"The prevailing conditions strain farming communities that rely on consistent rainfall to water major crops like sugarcane, rice and coffee"
What is your name and where are from?
I’m Raziel Hernandez, and I come from the small town of La Chorrera, west of Panama City near Panama Canal.
Have you heard the term Climate change?
Growing up I have seen lots of changes in my city especially with the water levels. Climate changes can be easily observed in my city and people hear about it in the news.
What is the climate over there?
La Chorrera is surrounded by lush rain forests and rivers feeding into the canal. This region connects the precious wetlands and tropical forests connecting Panama and Costa Rica. Normally, we experience an intense rainy season from July through December, where it rains almost daily. La Nina years bring even more daily downpours as cooler Pacific temperatures increase rising air and storm formation over Panama. After studying abroad for several years, I returned home to find that the rainfall levels in La Nina had noticeably decreased compared to the previous decades.
Do you guys see any changes in the climate during past few years
I have a sobering view of how climate change is disrupting Panama’s ecosystem and communities. While Panama is considered to be water secure, I’ve witnessed decreasing water levels in the Panama Canal over the years. This has not led to significant disruptions for canal operations and shipping activity, but I fear if the levels continue to drop further, it could become an issue in the future. The prolonged periods of drought are also very challenging, and bring water shortages in some regions. While I don’t have firsthand experience in agriculture, I know the prevailing conditions strain farming communities that rely on consistent rainfall to water major crops like sugarcane, rice and coffee. Climate change brings about a reduction in agricultural output, leading to food insecurity when the harvests are poor.
What does your family think about the climate change?
My family doesn't hold many discussions about climate change.
What is your opinion on climate change, why does it occur, and what is the main cause?
I'm very aware of how climate change has impacted communities across Panama and the world. While the effects I've seen over five years are dramatic, there still seems to be a lack of widespread urgency around this crisis amongst many people in my country. The threat can feel abstract when you don't directly bear the costs yet. But those of us living in communities entwined with nature can see the rapid transformations year after year. I worry about my future and that of the generations to come if we don't get this global crisis under control soon. Our economy, livelihoods, and incredible natural treasures rely on a healthy, stable environment. It's devastating that so much is at risk due to factors beyond our control. I hope more people can understand what's at stake before it's too late.
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