Panama quake of magnitude 7.6 triggers tsunami alerts and aftershocks

Panama Earthquake Strikes

A powerful earthquake struck Panama on Friday, shaking buildings across the Central American country and triggering tsunami alerts along the Pacific coast. The earthquake, which had a magnitude of 7.6, was centered about 10 kilometers west-southwest of Pitaloza Arriba in southern Panama, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

Earthquake Details

The earthquake occurred at a relatively shallow depth of 10 kilometers, increasing the potential for strong shaking near the epicenter. The quake was felt in Panama City and neighboring countries, including Costa Rica and Colombia, as authorities began assessing damage and monitoring a series of aftershocks.

Detail	Information
Magnitude	7.6
Epicenter	10 kilometers west-southwest of Pitaloza Arriba
Depth	10 kilometers
Aftershocks	More than a dozen, with some reaching magnitudes above 5.0

Tsunami Alerts and Aftershocks

The U.S. Tsunami Warning System issued alerts for several countries in Central and South America, warning that potentially hazardous tsunami waves could affect some coastal areas. The countries identified in regional tsunami threat messages included Panama, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Mexico. More than a dozen aftershocks were recorded following the main earthquake, according to information released by the Panamanian president's office. As Rosendo Domínguez, a 60-year-old resident, told The Associated Press, "We felt it very strongly. It knocked things over in the kitchen, but we're okay, though we're very scared."

Damage and Response

Initial damage assessments identified affected areas in Herrera, Veraguas, and Los Santos provinces. In Penonomé, located in Coclé province, footage broadcast by local media showed damage to buildings, including part of a historic cathedral and a hotel facade. Falling debris reportedly struck a vehicle, while structural damage was also observed in other buildings. Authorities urged people to remain cautious, especially around damaged structures, as additional aftershocks could occur. President José Raúl Mulino called on the public to remain calm, stating, "What happened should not be used to cause alarm or disorder."

International Response

The earthquake prompted a regional response, with the U.S. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center warning that hazardous tsunami waves could reach parts of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Peru, Mexico, Guatemala, Panama, Nicaragua, Colombia, and Ecuador within hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the magnitude of the earthquake?

The earthquake had a magnitude of 7.6, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

Where was the epicenter of the earthquake?

The epicenter was located about 10 kilometers west-southwest of Pitaloza Arriba in southern Panama.

Were there any tsunami warnings issued?

Yes, the U.S. Tsunami Warning System issued alerts for several countries in Central and South America, warning that potentially hazardous tsunami waves could affect some coastal areas.

Next Steps

As emergency teams continue to examine affected areas, officials are focused on evaluating structural damage, assisting residents, and tracking further seismic activity. The number and strength of aftershocks remain important concerns, particularly in communities where buildings have already sustained damage. People living near the epicenter are encouraged to avoid visibly damaged structures and remain informed through official emergency announcements. Further updates are expected as authorities complete damage assessments, verify potential casualties, and review the latest earthquake and tsunami observations.