Panama earthquake: Tsunami threat issued for Mexico and Colombia after huge tremor

A magnitude 8 earthquake struck Panama, triggering a tsunami alert for nine countries, including Mexico and Colombia. Buildings were evacuated.

Brit Brief 09/10/2026 17:33

Panama earthquake: Tsunami threat issued for Mexico and Colombia after huge tremor — Panama earthquake: Tsunami threat issued for Mexico and Colombia

A magnitude 8 earthquake struck Panama this evening, shaking buildings and prompting a tsunami alert covering nine countries. The tremor was detected 14 kilometres southwest of Pitaloza Arriba in Panama, according to the USGS.

Evacuations and social media reaction

Following the quake, buildings were evacuated and people took to social media to describe their experience. One user on X wrote: "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."

Tsunami alert issued

A "potential tsunami threat" was issued by the NOAA for nine countries: Ecuador, Colombia, Nicaragua, Panama, Guatemala, Peru, El Salvador and Costa Rica. The alert also covers Mexico, according to the report.