7.2-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Panama, Tsunami Threat Later Revoked

October 10, 2026

Panama City: A 7.2-magnitude earthquake struck Panama on Friday, causing strong tremors in the capital, Panama City, and prompting tsunami warnings across parts of the Pacific coast. The earthquake’s epicentre was located 39 kilometres northwest of Tonosi, a town in Los Santos province, according to a revised report by the University of Panama’s Institute of Geosciences.

Strong shaking was reported locally, with videos shared on social media showing the roof of the Albrook bus terminal swaying and windows shaking in several buildings.

Tremors were also felt in Panama City, where residents experienced strong side-to-side jolts. A hanging light inside a room was seen swaying intensely, according to an account by a correspondent in the city.

USGS Revises Earthquake Magnitude, Tsunami Threat Revoked

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) initially reported the earthquake at magnitude 8.0 before revising its estimate to 7.7. The University of Panama’s Institute of Geosciences later reported a magnitude of 7.2.

Following the earthquake, the US Tsunami Warning System issued a tsunami threat, warning that hazardous waves were possible along parts of the coasts of Panama, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador and Mexico within three hours.

The US tsunami warning was later revoked. Meanwhile, the tsunami warning department of the Chilean Navy’s Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service issued an alert over the possibility of a tsunami affecting Easter Island.

Panama Canal Operations Continue, Emergency Inspections Underway

The Panama Canal Authority said operations were continuing normally after the earthquake. Emergency protocols were activated, and technical teams began inspecting canal facilities for possible damage.

Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino urged the public to remain calm in a post on X, warning against spreading unnecessary alarm and disorder.

“What happened must not be used to spread alarm and disorder,” Mulino wrote.

The president also said he had asked Government Minister Dinoska Montalvo to provide a report on the earthquake’s impact.

Schools Suspend Afternoon Classes Across Panama

The Education Ministry suspended afternoon classes at schools nationwide following the earthquake. The ministry’s administrative offices were also ordered to remain closed.

Authorities continued assessing the situation after the tremors, while inspections of critical infrastructure and emergency arrangements remained in place.