7.7 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Panama Coast

A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Panama's southern coast on Oct. 9, 2026, sending tremors that reached Panama City and even Costa Rica's capital. The U.S. Geological Survey initially reported the quake at a preliminary magnitude of 8.0, later adjusting it to 7.6 before settling on 7.7.

The epicenter was near La Pitaloza, a sparsely populated area. No immediate damage reports surfaced, but residents evacuated buildings in Panama City during the strong shaking. "We felt it very strongly. It knocked things over in the kitchen, but we're okay, though we're very scared. Everyone is outside, scared," resident Rosendo Domínguez told the Associated Press.

Tsunami warnings were issued for the coasts of Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, and surrounding regions. The Panama Canal reported normal operations.

Seismologists continue to review data, and the magnitude may be subject to further revision.