A strong earthquake measuring 7.7 in magnitude struck Panama on Friday, causing significant structural damage and injuring at least 27 people, though no fatalities have been reported. The quake occurred at 12:56 p.m. local time, with its epicenter located approximately 10 kilometers from the small town of Pitaloza Arriba in Herrera province, in the central part of the country.

The tremor, which lasted about a minute, was shallow and felt broadly across Panama’s population of around 4.5 million. It triggered widespread panic, particularly in Panama City, some 200 kilometers from the epicenter, where residents evacuated high-rise buildings amid fears of collapse. Videos circulated on social media showed water spilling from a rooftop pool atop a tall building as well as a major bridge over the Panama Canal shaking violently but remaining intact while vehicles continued to cross.

President Jose Raul Mulino described the event as a “major disaster,” noting that several roads had suffered complete collapse. Speaking from the central regions, he emphasized the severity of the situation but urged calm, cautioning against alarm and disorder. He also traveled to the town of Penonome in Cocle province to oversee disaster response efforts.

The provinces of Herrera, Cocle, and Los Santos reported the most significant damage. Health Minister Fernando Boyd highlighted that the town of Tonosi in Los Santos had become entirely isolated due to landslides and road damage, prompting officials to consider airlifts to deliver aid given the impossibility of reaching the area by land. Power outages were reported in some towns, contributing to the challenges faced by emergency services.

The Panama Canal Authority confirmed that shipping activities through this vital global trade route remained unaffected and continued as normal. However, Panama City's international airport was temporarily closed and several flights were redirected as a precautionary measure.

More than 80 aftershocks were recorded in the aftermath, including one that exceeded magnitude 6.0, raising concerns about further damage and safety. Schools across the country were closed following an announcement from the education ministry.

The quake’s impact included the collapse of homes, a church, and a hotel, particularly in the central provinces. People in affected areas reported widespread fear and reluctance to return to their residences amid concerns about additional tremors.

Although earthquakes are uncommon in Panama, particularly of this magnitude, the country has recently experienced increased seismic activity in the wider Latin American region, following strong quakes in Venezuela and Colombia earlier this year.

Internationally, leaders from neighboring countries including Colombia, Ecuador, and Guatemala extended messages of solidarity and offered assistance. The United States also signaled readiness to provide support, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that resources and personnel were being mobilized at Panama’s request.

Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage as recovery efforts proceed.