---
title: "Powerful Earthquake Strikes Central Coast of Panama"
url: https://newscentral.site/powerful-earthquake-strikes-central-coast-of-panama/
language: en
publisher: "News Central Site"
section: "World"
published: 2026-10-09T19:01:59.000Z
updated: 2026-10-10T00:51:59.645Z
id: 41876acd-6591-4487-9eff-c944db5e7e78
source: "NBC News World https://www.nbcnews.com/world/panama/magnitude-77-earthquake-rocks-panama-rcna602557"
attribution: "Link to https://newscentral.site/powerful-earthquake-strikes-central-coast-of-panama/ and name News Central Site when you quote or summarize this story."
---

# Powerful Earthquake Strikes Central Coast of Panama

A powerful earthquake struck the central coast of Panama on Friday, triggering tsunami warnings in several neighboring countries. The 7-magnitude quake's epicenter was located about 6 miles southwest of the remote community of Pitaloza Arriba, near Panama's southern tip.

Tsunami warnings have been issued for Ecuador, Colombia, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Peru, and Panama itself, following the quake. The US Geological Survey reported that the earthquake had a depth of 6 miles and was centered in the same area where more than 45 aftershocks were recorded by seismologists at the University of Panama.

The initial earthquake caused significant tremors in the capital city of Panama City, where buildings shook and residents evacuated into the streets. The city's tall skyscrapers were visibly affected, with people gathered outside waiting for news of the quake's impact.

The quake's impact was not limited to one area, as several regions were affected by the disaster. Rosendo Domínguez, a 60-year-old resident from Herrera province, described the scene in his kitchen where items had been knocked over.

Omar Smith of the National Civil Protection Service reported that damage was concentrated in central provinces such as Veraguas, Herrera and Los Santos. Several injuries have been reported, including one person hit by debris from a partially collapsed structure in Penonomé city.

The extent of the destruction is becoming clearer, with various buildings affected by the quake. Smith confirmed partial collapse at the cathedral in the main square and cracks at the Dos Continentes hotel in the same area.

The earthquake has left a trail of destruction in its wake, with buildings collapsing near the site of the original quake and aftershocks. Videos shared on social media show the devastating impact, including a hotel reduced to rubble in the popular tourist area of Playa Venao. The images reveal the severity of the damage caused by the 7.7-magnitude earthquake.

Panama's National System for Civil Protection is keeping a close eye on reports of further damage throughout the country, as aftershocks continue to strike. This monitoring effort aims to identify any additional areas that may have been affected by the quake or its subsequent shocks. The system's vigilance ensures prompt response to emerging needs and potential emergencies.

As the international community rallies around Panama, nearby countries are sending messages of support and solidarity. Colombia has pledged its assistance, stating that "Panama is not alone" and offering full willingness to provide aid as needed. Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Panama reports it is closely monitoring the situation and accounting for the welfare of its citizens, many of whom have made Panama a popular retirement destination.

---
Source: [NBC News World](https://www.nbcnews.com/world/panama/magnitude-77-earthquake-rocks-panama-rcna602557)  
Published by News Central Site: https://newscentral.site/powerful-earthquake-strikes-central-coast-of-panama/