RismadarVoice Reporters
October 10, 2026
A powerful earthquake measuring 7.7 in magnitude has struck Panama, leaving at least 27 people with minor injuries and causing extensive damage to buildings, roads and other infrastructure.
According to preliminary reports, no fatalities had been recorded as emergency authorities continued assessing the destruction across affected communities.
The earthquake struck at approximately 12:56 p.m. local time on Friday, with its epicentre reportedly located about 10 kilometres from Pitaloza Arriba in Herrera province.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) was reported to have initially measured the earthquake at magnitude 8.0 before revising the figure to 7.7.
The tremor was felt across several parts of the country, including Panama City, where residents evacuated high-rise buildings as the shaking continued.
Panama’s National Civil Protection System said emergency teams were assessing damaged infrastructure and coordinating assistance for affected residents.
President José Raúl Mulino described the situation as a major disaster, reporting severe damage to some roads and directing emergency response efforts.
He subsequently travelled to Penonomé to oversee relief operations and assess the situation in affected communities.
Health Minister Fernando Boyd identified Herrera, Coclé and Los Santos as among the worst-hit provinces.
Authorities reported that Tonosí, a town in Los Santos province, had become inaccessible by road, prompting consideration of alternative means of delivering emergency assistance.
The earthquake also disrupted aviation operations, with Panama City’s international airport temporarily closed and some flights diverted as a precaution.
However, the Panama Canal Authority reported that shipping operations through the strategic waterway continued without interruption.
A tsunami warning issued for parts of the eastern Pacific following the earthquake was subsequently lifted.
Residents also reported damage to homes, commercial buildings and public facilities, while images circulating online showed structural damage in several communities.
Panama’s geosciences authorities reportedly recorded more than 80 aftershocks, including one exceeding magnitude 6.0, increasing concerns about the safety of damaged buildings.
The Ministry of Education announced the suspension of school activities nationwide as authorities assessed the condition of educational facilities.
Meanwhile, the United States, Colombia, Ecuador and Guatemala expressed readiness to support Panama’s emergency response.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington was monitoring developments and preparing assistance in coordination with Panamanian authorities.
President Mulino urged residents to remain calm, follow official safety instructions and avoid spreading unverified information.
Emergency teams continued evaluating damaged infrastructure, assisting displaced residents and determining the full extent of the disaster.
