Earthquake strikes Panama at magnitude 7.7, tsunami threat issued
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck Panama, prompting a tsunami threat and a large-scale government mobilization. U.S. officials are monitoring the situation and providing assistance to American citizens in the region.
Why it matters
Major seismic events in Central America pose significant humanitarian risks and require coordinated international disaster response efforts.
Hear this story A major earthquake jolted the country of Panama on Oct. 9, the United States Geological Survey reported .
The quake measured a preliminary magnitude 7.7, the USGS said, with the epicenter just under nine miles southwest of Pitaloza Arriba.
The temblor struck just before 1:56 p.m. ET, and it was not immediately clear whether the quake caused any injuries or damage.
According to the National Tsunami Warning Center , the quake triggered a tsunami threat.
Initially, the USGS reported that the quake measured a magnitude 8.0.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that he is "closely monitoring the situation" in Panama and that the State Department "is rapidly mobilizing resources and personnel to assist" at the request of Panama’s government.
Also covering this story
7 other newsrooms covered this event. We read each version separately.
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