Overview
- A shallow, powerful quake struck near Pitaloza Arriba on Friday and the U.S. Geological Survey revised its initial magnitude from about 8.0 to roughly 7.7 as data were reanalyzed.
- Dozens of aftershocks followed, including readings near 5.8 and 5.5, driving mass evacuations in Panama City and coastal towns and sending people into the streets for safety.
- Local officials report structural damage concentrated in central provinces — Penonomé, Herrera, Veraguas and Los Santos — with collapsed sections of buildings, a damaged cathedral and a small number of reported injuries as inspections continue.
- The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued alerts covering nine countries that were later reduced or lifted in some areas after tide and sea-level monitoring; the Panama Canal remained operational while technical teams inspected facilities.
- Emergency services are prioritizing search and rescue, restoring transport and power, and urging residents to avoid damaged structures and prepare for more aftershocks and possible local coastal surges.