A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake has struck Panama, delivering a severe shock to the capital, Panama City, and causing damage to buildings, roads, and bridges across various locations. Following the main quake, a strong aftershock measuring 6.9 magnitude was recorded, which geologists have identified as the primary risk. Tocumen International Airport temporarily suspended flight operations but resumed service after about two hours, while the Panama Canal continues to operate normally. October 11, Panama City.
The Central American nation of Panama experienced a strong 7.7 magnitude earthquake on Friday. The tremor was strongly felt in the capital, Panama City, and caused structural damage to buildings, roads, and bridges throughout the country. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake occurred at 1:56 p.m. local time on Thursday. The epicenter was located approximately 9 miles southwest of the Pitalosa Arriba area in the Azuero Peninsula, several hours from Panama City. A powerful aftershock measuring 6.9 magnitude followed the main quake.
The aftershock struck at around 4:25 p.m. with an initial magnitude of 6.9. Geologists have emphasized this aftershock as the primary hazard. In the coastal town of El Venado, near the quake’s center, the El Sitio Hotel collapsed, though no casualties have been reported. Some houses sustained cracks, and one bridge was also damaged. Electrical services were disrupted due to the earthquake. “So far, the most important thing is that no human casualties have been reported,” Mayor Batistale told Panama’s Telemetro television channel.
