Panama has declared a state of emergency following two powerful earthquakes that struck the Central American country, damaging homes, schools, hospitals and roads as repeated aftershocks continued to frighten residents.
The earthquakes, measuring magnitudes 7.7 and 6.6, struck on Friday, October 9, 2026, prompting evacuations and widespread concern across the country. Seismologists recorded more than 100 aftershocks, including several strong enough to be felt by residents.
On Saturday, government officials confirmed damage across all 10 provinces and two Indigenous territories. Authorities reported at least 27 people injured, although no deaths had been attributed to the earthquakes at the time of the announcement.
Hundreds of Homes and Schools Damaged
Presidential Minister Juan Carlos Orillac announced the emergency declaration, explaining that it would help the government coordinate assistance and respond to the needs of affected communities.
The National Civil Protection System reported that approximately 420 homes and a similar number of public schools had sustained damage. Seven hotels, at least 13 churches and nine bridges were also affected.
The central provinces of Veraguas, Herrera, Coclé and Los Santos experienced some of the most significant damage.
In La Villa de Los Santos, several homes and the historic Church of San Atanasio collapsed. Other communities reported damaged buildings, cracked roads and disruptions to essential services.
Authorities continued assessing the damage as residents awaited guidance on when it would be safe to return to their homes.
Residents Evacuated as Aftershocks Continue
The continuing tremors have forced residents to seek safer locations, with some spending the night outdoors because they feared damaged buildings could collapse.
Approximately 300 people were evacuated from Isla Caña along Panama’s Pacific coast amid rising sea levels and rough surf. Shelters were also established in affected areas to accommodate displaced residents.
In Panama City, damage to a water treatment facility reduced its operating capacity, raising concerns about water supply. Tocumen International Airport temporarily suspended operations following the initial earthquake before reopening.
Meanwhile, the Panama Canal continued operating normally, although technical teams were inspecting facilities for potential damage.
Government Mobilises Emergency Assistance
Panama’s government is coordinating relief operations while authorities monitor aftershocks and assess infrastructure damage. The United States has pledged $5 million in humanitarian assistance and mobilised a disaster response team to support local authorities.
Panama’s location along the Pacific Ring of Fire makes it vulnerable to seismic activity. Officials continue urging residents to follow safety instructions as recovery efforts proceed.
Swifteradio.com
