A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Panama on Friday, prompting mass evacuation orders and tsunami warnings for nine countries. The US Tsunami Warning System warned that possible tsunami waves could hit the region within hours.
Tsunami threat across nine countries
A "potential tsunami threat" was issued for Ecuador, Colombia, Nicaragua, Panama, Guatemala, Peru, El Salvador and Costa Rica. The quake was centred near the southern tip of the Central American country, about 14 kilometres (nine miles) south-west of the remote community of Pitaloza Arriba, according to the US Geological Survey.
Impact in the capital
Buildings from miles away in the capital were shaken by the tremor. Tremors were felt in Panama City, where buildings shook and people evacuated into the streets. Visibly shaken residents gathered outside as they waited for news of the earthquake's impact.
Residents react
Residents rushed to social media to share their shock at the quake. One person wrote on X: "Just now, there was an earthquake in Panama. I'm scared to death. It was very strong. I'm scared. My dogs are frightened. I didn't know what to do."
