A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Panama on Friday, October 9, 2026, shaking buildings, damaging structures and triggering a tsunami warning that prompted precautionary evacuations in coastal communities.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the earthquake occurred at a depth of approximately 12.6 kilometres, with its epicentre near Pitaloza Arriba in south-central Panama, about 200 kilometres from the capital, Panama City. 
The powerful tremor sent residents and office workers rushing into the streets as buildings shook across parts of the country. Initial reports indicated damage to homes and public structures, while several aftershocks rattled affected areas following the main earthquake.
One of the aftershocks reportedly reached a magnitude of approximately 6.6, raising concerns about further structural damage and the safety of residents in affected communities.
The earthquake prompted authorities to issue a tsunami warning, initially forecasting waves of up to three metres along parts of Panama’s coastline.
Emergency agencies urged residents in vulnerable coastal areas to remain alert and follow official safety instructions as authorities monitored sea levels and assessed the potential impact of the earthquake.
The tsunami threat was subsequently declared to have passed, and the warning was lifted, easing fears of potentially dangerous waves along the country’s coastline.
Meanwhile, airport operations were temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure before services resumed.
Despite the disruption, the Panama Canal continued operating normally, according to reports available on Friday.
Authorities had reported no confirmed fatalities as of Friday evening, although emergency officials continued assessing structural damage and monitoring aftershocks.
The earthquake underscored the risks posed by powerful seismic activity, particularly in coastal regions where underwater disturbances can trigger potentially destructive tsunami waves.
Officials continued to urge residents to remain vigilant and comply with emergency guidance as assessments of the earthquake’s impact progressed.
