Breaking News: A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck off Panama’s coast, prompting tsunami alerts for multiple nations.
A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the southern coast of Panama on Friday afternoon, shaking the capital and triggering tsunami warnings across the region. The quake, initially measured at 8.0 by the U.S. Geological Survey, hit approximately 6 miles beneath the surface near Pitaloza Arriba, Panama, at 1:56 PM ET. A significant 5.5 magnitude aftershock quickly followed.
The earthquake was felt in both Panama City and San José, Costa Rica, according to Reuters. Authorities issued warnings of potential tsunami waves ranging from 3 to 10 feet above tide levels for some areas of Panama’s coast. Neighbouring Ecuador could experience waves of 1 to 3 feet. Smaller waves were forecast for Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Peru. Despite the regional alerts, officials confirmed a Pacific-wide tsunami was not anticipated.
According to Michigan Technological University, earthquakes between 7.0 and 7.9 magnitude are capable of inflicting substantial damage. Reports of damage and casualties are currently unavailable. Medical personnel and patients were observed gathering outside hospitals in Panama City following the shaking.
The immediate priority is assessing the impact on coastal communities and mitigating potential risks from the tsunami threat. The situation remains fluid, with authorities monitoring the region closely for further developments.
This is a developing story and information is still emerging.
Sources: Fox News, Reuters (as reported by Fox News).
