Powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake shakes Panama, followed by large aftershocks

A powerful magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck central Panama on Friday, October 9, 2026, causing significant shaking across the country and triggering widespread panic. The tremor, centered southwest of Pitaloza Arriba in Herrera province at a depth of approximately 10 to 12.6 kilometers, was felt as far away as neighboring Colombia. Numerous aftershocks, including magnitudes 5.8 and 5.5, followed the initial quake.

The earthquake caused structural damage to buildings in central provinces such as Herrera, Veraguas, and Los Santos. Reports included partially collapsed structures, cracks in a cathedral and government buildings, and the collapse of a historic church in Penonomé. While buildings swayed and evacuations occurred in the capital, Panama City, no significant damage was reported there. Initial tsunami warnings were issued for Panama and several other Central and South American nations, but these threats were later deemed to have passed.

Authorities reported some injuries due to falling debris, but no fatalities were immediately confirmed. The earthquake also led to disruptions, including power outages in six provinces, temporary suspensions of flights at Tocumen International Airport, and the closure of schools. However, operations at the vital Panama Canal continued without interruption following inspections.