A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake occurred on Friday, October 9, 2026, in Panama, causing intense concern among residents and putting civil protection services on alert.
According to initial information from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the epicenter of the earthquake was located in the southern part of the country, approximately 10 kilometers southwest of the community of Pitaloza Arriba, with the focal depth estimated at 10 kilometers.
Panic and building evacuations
The tremor was particularly felt even in Panama City, where buildings swayed and citizens abandoned homes and workplaces, seeking safe spots in open spaces.
Initial reports indicate material damage mainly in the provinces of Veraguas, Herrera and Los Santos, while the competent services continue to assess the situation.
In the capital, no significant damage to tall buildings had been reported during initial updates.
Tsunami warning
The strong seismic activity led to the issuance of warnings of a possible tsunami in coastal areas of the Pacific Ocean.
Among the countries put on alert are Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Nicaragua and Guatemala.
The competent authorities are monitoring the development of the phenomenon, as the possibility of dangerous sea waves requires special attention in coastal communities.
Post-seismic activity continues
Aftershocks were recorded after the main earthquake, increasing the population’s concern.
Civil protection services called on residents to remain calm and follow official safety instructions exclusively.
Panama is located in a particularly active seismic zone, which is connected to the so-called “Ring of Fire” of the Pacific, where a significant part of global seismic activity occurs.
Authorities are continuing inspections in the affected areas, while new information is expected regarding the extent of the damage and the consequences of the strong tremor.
