A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Panama on Friday afternoon, prompting tsunami warnings across nine countries, collapsing buildings and forcing the evacuation of hospitals.
The quake hit around 3pm local time, with the USGS reporting it occurred 12km west south west of Pitaloza Arriba in southern Panama. The magnitude was initially reported as 8 on the Richter scale before being downgraded to 7.7.
Tsunami warnings and evacuations
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre issued alerts for Panama, Mexico, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Peru and El Salvador.
Several hospitals across Panama have been evacuated, and both runways at Panama's main international airport have been shut down following the disaster.
Local residents are reportedly assisting emergency services in sifting through the rubble of collapsed buildings, with concerns mounting that individuals may be trapped underneath the debris.
Residents describe terror
Rosendo Dominguez, 60, from Herrera province, described the moment the quake struck: "We felt it very strongly. It knocked things over in the kitchen, but we're okay, though we're very scared."
Dominguez added: "Everyone is outside, scared."
At this stage, it is uncertain whether there have been any casualties.
Regional support pledged
Colombian president Abelardo De La Espriella posted on X: "I express my deepest solidarity and affection to the brotherly people of Panama and their government during these difficult times following the powerful earthquake."
"Colombia stands with the Panamanian nation in this adversity. We are united by history, brotherhood, and bonds of friendship that are strengthened especially in times of hardship. Panama is not alone! You can count on Colombia's support and our full willingness to provide any assistance you may need. A fraternal embrace to all."
