Magnitude 7.6 Earthquake Strikes Panama, Triggering Evacuations as Tsunami Threat Ends

A powerful magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck Panama around midday on October 9, 2026, shaking the capital, Panama City, and other parts of the country. The tremor prompted evacuations from schools, homes and office buildings, while reports of structural damage and temporary power outages emerged from several areas. The earthquake also triggered tsunami alerts for parts of the Pacific coastline, although authorities later confirmed that the tsunami threat had passed.

According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at approximately 12:56 p.m. local time. Its epicenter was near Pitaloza Arriba in central Panama, close to Herrera province, at a depth of approximately 12.6 kilometers. The combination of its powerful magnitude and relatively shallow depth produced strong shaking across several regions. Residents reported swaying buildings and objects falling inside homes and offices.

Following the earthquake, people evacuated buildings in multiple locations. In Panama City, residents and office workers moved into streets and open spaces while awaiting further information. Occupants of high-rise buildings also rushed to leave their workplaces and homes, contributing to traffic disruptions in some areas. The intense shaking, concerns about structural damage and the possibility of aftershocks heightened public anxiety.

Damage was reported in several central provinces. Some public and historic buildings sustained cracks or partial collapses, including damage to the Church of San Atanasio. Buildings in and around Penonomé were also affected. Emergency personnel began inspecting damaged structures and assessing potential hazards, while residents were advised to stay away from buildings that might have suffered structural damage.

The earthquake initially prompted tsunami alerts for parts of the Pacific coast of Central and South America. Authorities warned that potentially hazardous waves could affect coastal areas while monitoring the situation. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center later stated that the tsunami threat had passed based on the available information. Officials continued to monitor local conditions and remained alert to other earthquake-related risks.

Despite the strength of the earthquake, some major infrastructure services continued operating after temporary suspensions and safety checks. Media reports said the Panama Canal was not significantly affected, while Tocumen International Airport resumed operations after a brief interruption. Authorities continued inspecting roads, public facilities and buildings to identify damage that might not have been immediately visible.

As of the latest reports, authorities had not confirmed any fatalities, although injuries were reported. Assessments were still underway, making it too early to determine the full extent of the damage or the total economic cost. President José Raúl Mulino urged residents to remain calm, follow official instructions and avoid circulating unverified information.

Seismologists and emergency officials warn that aftershocks may follow a major earthquake. Buildings that have already been damaged can pose additional risks, including falling debris, weakened walls and structural instability. Residents are therefore advised to avoid entering damaged structures until they have been inspected and to follow instructions from local emergency services.

The earthquake has renewed attention to seismic preparedness, building safety standards and public emergency awareness. As Panama continues its damage assessments and safety inspections, further information about injuries, structural damage and the overall impact is expected to become available.