A strong earthquake struck Panama on 9 October 2026. According to the USGS, it measured 7.7 in magnitude. The epicenter was near Pitaloza Arriba in the southern part of the country. A tsunami warning was issued but later lifted by the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center.
The quake drew attention because of its strength and the initial tsunami alerts covering several Pacific coastlines. The threat has now passed, though aftershocks continue.
When and where did the earthquake hit?
The earthquake occurred around 12:56 pm local time on 9 October 2026. The epicenter was approximately 10-12 km west-southwest of Pitaloza Arriba. Depth was estimated between 10 and 12.6 km. Early readings ranged from 7.6 to 8.0 before the USGS settled on 7.7.
Shaking was felt in Panama City. People evacuated buildings. Damage was reported in the provinces of Veraguas, Herrera and Los Santos. The San Juan Bautista Cathedral in Penonomé suffered damage. Schools were ordered closed.
What happened with the tsunami warning?
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center issued a warning after the quake. It covered coastal areas of Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Guatemala and several other countries. Waves of 1 to 3 metres were considered possible along parts of Panama’s coast.
Hours later, the PTWC issued its final bulletin stating the tsunami threat had passed. No warning, advisory or threat remains in effect. Minor sea-level fluctuations may still occur for a few hours, but no hazardous tsunami is expected.
The Panama Canal continued operating normally.
Damage and aftershocks
Early official reports did not confirm any deaths or serious injuries. President José Raúl Mulino urged calm and said assessment was ongoing. Local authorities recorded more than 80 aftershocks, including one above magnitude 6.0.
Power, transport and some public services faced disruptions. Residents gathered outside and described the shaking as strong and frightening.
Any impact elsewhere?
This earthquake was centered in Panama. It has no direct effect on India or the Indian Ocean region. The tsunami alerts were limited to Pacific coastlines and have been cancelled.
Anyone in or near the affected area should follow local official advice and remain cautious during aftershocks.
Advice:
If you are in Panama or nearby, follow official updates. Aftershocks can still occur, so stay away from weakened structures. The tsunami warning has been lifted, but coastal caution is still sensible. People in India face no direct risk from this event.
FAQ
What was the magnitude of the Panama earthquake today?
7.7 according to the USGS.
Is the tsunami warning still active?
No. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center has lifted it.
Where was the epicenter?
Near Pitaloza Arriba in southern Panama.
Was the Panama Canal affected?
No. It continued operating normally.
Were there confirmed deaths?
Early official reports did not confirm any fatalities.
Sources: USGS, Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, Al Jazeera, Reuters, The Watchers.
Residents who evacuated said the shaking was strong enough to knock things over in kitchens. Many gathered outside, visibly shaken. Power and transport services faced temporary disruptions in several areas. Local geosciences authorities recorded dozens of aftershocks.
The strongest effects were felt near the Azuero Peninsula in southern Panama. Panama City saw buildings sway and people leave offices and homes, but no major structural collapses were reported in the capital. Schools were closed as a precaution.
During the brief tsunami alert, seawater reached some homes near Isla Cañas. Officials later confirmed the hazardous threat had passed. The PTWC final bulletin stated no tsunami warning remained in effect.
Authorities are now assessing damage to buildings and infrastructure. Weakened structures are being checked. People have been advised to stay cautious during aftershocks and follow official information channels only.
This was one of the stronger earthquakes in the region in recent times. Both USGS and local agencies continue to monitor the situation. Anyone with family or travel plans in the area should keep checking official alerts.
