Panama Declares State of Emergency After 7.5-Magnitude Earthquake

October 11, 2026

Panama City: Panama has declared a state of emergency to coordinate relief operations and assist communities affected by a powerful magnitude-7.5 earthquake that struck the country on October 9.

Presidency Minister Juan Carlos Orillac announced the decision at a press conference at the presidential palace on Saturday, saying the declaration would keep government agencies on standby and ensure they had the resources required to support affected communities.

Orillac said President Jose Raul Mulino had ordered the formation of a commission to coordinate relief operations, manage resources and address the needs of people affected by the earthquake.

The government has also established donation collection centres, including one at Omar Park in Panama City. Provincial government offices will serve as additional collection points, Orillac said.

Earthquake Damages Homes, Schools and Public Infrastructure

The magnitude-7.5 earthquake struck at 12:56 pm local time on Friday, with its epicentre located about 39 kilometres northwest of Tonosi in Los Santos province.

The tremor damaged homes, schools, healthcare facilities, roads and public buildings across several parts of Panama. Videos shared on social media showed the roof of the Albrook bus terminal swaying, while windows shook violently in several buildings.

Tremors were also felt in the capital, Panama City. A correspondent in the city reported strong side-to-side jolts, while a hanging light inside a room swayed intensely.

Authorities continue to assess the extent of the damage and coordinate emergency response efforts as the government works to provide assistance to affected communities.

India Expresses Solidarity With Panama

India has expressed support for Panama following the earthquake. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said on Saturday that India stood with the government and people of the Central American country.

“Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with all those injured and affected, especially the families who have suffered loss and hardship,” Jaishankar wrote in a post on X, tagging Panama’s Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha Vasquez.

The Indian minister’s message conveyed solidarity with those affected as Panamanian authorities continued relief and damage-assessment operations.