Panama rocked by 2 powerful earthquakes, multiple aftershocks
Quick Look
- Two powerful earthquakes measuring 7.7 and 6.6 magnitude struck Panama on Friday afternoon, collapsing buildings near the epicenter and prompting nationwide evacuations, according to the US Geological Survey.
- The first quake was centered 10km southwest of Pitaloza Arriba in Herrera province at a depth of 10km, and was felt as far as neighboring Colombia.
- Residents in Panama City gathered outside, visibly shaken, awaiting news of the impact.
AI-generated summary
Why It Matters
Panama is located in a seismically active region due to the interaction of tectonic plates in Central America, making it prone to earthquakes. The USGS monitors and reports on seismic activity globally.
Two powerful 7.7 and 6.6 magnitude earthquakes and a series of aftershocks struck Panama on Friday afternoon, collapsing buildings near the epicentre and prompting evacuations across the country, the US Geological Survey said.
The earlier quake, felt as far away as neighbouring Colombia, was centred about 10km (six miles) southwest of the remote community of Pitaloza Arriba, in the central province of Herrera, the USGS said. It struck at a depth of 10km.
The USGS initially reported the first quake as magnitude 8, then revised it to 7.6 and later to 7.7.
Visibly shaken residents of Panama City gathered outside as they waited for news of the quake’s impact on Friday.
What to Watch
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
Aftershocks will continue to be felt in the region over the coming days
Very likely · Within days
Authorities will assess structural damage and issue safety guidelines
Likely · Within days
Open Questions
- What is the exact number of casualties or injuries?
- Which specific buildings collapsed and where?
- What is the extent of infrastructure damage?
- Are there ongoing rescue operations?
