A powerful earthquake struck off the southern coast of Panama on Friday, October 9, 2026. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the earthquake at a magnitude of 7.6. The tremors shook buildings in Panama City, prompting residents to evacuate their homes and offices. The US Tsunami Warning System issued an alert following the earthquake. Authorities began assessing the potential impact of the disaster.
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Tsunami Warning Issued for Multiple Countries
The US Tsunami Warning System warned that hazardous tsunami waves could reach parts of Panama and Colombia within three hours. The alert also raised concerns for coastal areas in several other countries. These included Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador and Mexico. Authorities urged people in potentially affected areas to follow official safety instructions. The warning highlighted the risk of dangerous waves following the powerful undersea earthquake.
According to the USGS, the earthquake occurred at a depth of approximately 10 kilometres beneath the Earth’s surface. Its epicentre lay about 14 kilometres southwest of Pitaloza Arriba, a remote community in Panama. The agency initially estimated the earthquake’s magnitude at 8.0 before revising it to 7.6. The shallow depth increased concerns about strong ground shaking in nearby areas. Officials continued to assess the earthquake’s effects and possible risks.
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Strong Tremors Shake Panama City
Residents in Panama City felt strong tremors as the earthquake shook buildings across the capital. Many people rushed into the streets to protect themselves from possible damage. Shaken residents gathered outside while waiting for updates about the situation. The USGS warned that the earthquake could cause widespread damage in affected areas. Authorities monitored reports from different locations to determine the extent of the destruction.
The USGS estimated that approximately 4.6 million people experienced moderate to severe shaking during the earthquake. Some areas may have suffered significant impacts due to the intensity of the tremors. The agency also warned that aftershocks could follow the main earthquake, with some potentially causing strong shaking. Authorities continued monitoring seismic activity and the tsunami threat. Residents in coastal areas were advised to remain alert and follow official emergency announcements.
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