Panama hit by magnitude 7.7 earthquake and powerful aftershocks

A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck southern Panama on Friday, October 9, damaging buildings and roads, forcing evacuations and prompting a temporary tsunami warning. A magnitude 6.6 quake followed about two and a half hours later, along with dozens of smaller aftershocks.

The U.S. Geological Survey placed the initial quake’s epicenter near the remote community of Pitaloza Arriba at a depth of roughly 10 to 13 kilometers. Tremors were felt in Panama City and neighboring Colombia. Residents evacuated offices, malls and other buildings in the capital, though civil protection officials said the heaviest damage was concentrated in Veraguas, Herrera and Los Santos provinces.

Officials reported several injuries, including one person struck by debris in Penonomé. President José Raúl Mulino said Friday evening that authorities had documented no deaths. Damage included partially collapsed buildings, cracked roads and harm to churches, government offices, schools and medical facilities. Panama’s Health Ministry said 17 health facilities were affected, while one hospital in Chiriquí province was evacuated.

Tocumen International Airport temporarily suspended operations for safety checks. The Panama Canal Authority said canal operations continued normally. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center initially warned of possible waves along Panama’s coast but later said the threat had passed.

The United States said it was mobilizing personnel and resources at Panama’s request. Israel also announced deliveries of drinking water and food to affected communities.