Panama declares emergency after powerful quakes

By the Editorial Team · Monday, October 12, 2026

Panama declared a state of emergency after two major earthquakes measuring 7.7 and 6.6 struck the central Herrera province, causing widespread damage across the country and injuring 27 people. The quakes resulted in significant destruction to homes, schools, infrastructure, and isolated several communities, prompting ongoing relief efforts and emergency evacuations, including 300 people from Isla Canas.

Panama declared a state of emergency on Saturday following two powerful earthquakes that struck the country on Friday, causing widespread damage and prolonged aftershocks. The quakes, registering magnitudes of 7.7 and 6.6, were centered near the remote community of Pitaloza Arriba in the central Herrera province. The shaking was felt across the country and as far as neighboring Colombia.

The initial quake occurred at a depth of 10 kilometers and was followed by more than 100 aftershocks, including significant tremors measuring 5.8, 5.5, and 5.2 on the Richter scale. While no fatalities have been reported, authorities confirmed injuries to 27 individuals with conditions ranging from minor to moderate.

Damage was reported in all 10 of Panama’s provinces as well as two indigenous territories, with the heaviest impacts concentrated in the central regions of Veraguas, Herrera, Cocle, and Los Santos. The National Civil Protection System recorded damage to approximately 420 homes and a similar number of public schools. Infrastructure including seven hotels, at least 13 churches, and nine bridges also suffered damage.

In La Villa de Los Santos, about 64 kilometers northeast of the epicenter, several homes and a historic Catholic church collapsed, forcing residents to spend the night outdoors. Tony Jimenez, a local resident whose home partially caved in, described the experience as unprecedented in his 90 years of life. Several communities also remained isolated due to landslides and road disruptions.

On Isla Canas, an island off the Pacific coast of Los Santos province, officials evacuated around 300 people due to rising sea levels and turbulent surf linked to the seismic activity.

Presidential Minister Juan Carlos Orillac addressed the media in Panama City, emphasizing the scope of the damage to homes, schools, health centers, roads, and hotels. Authorities continue to assess the situation and coordinate relief efforts.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry expressed sympathy for those affected and confirmed that no Chinese nationals were reported among the victims as of Saturday. The ministry and the Chinese embassy in Panama are monitoring the situation closely and stand ready to assist Chinese citizens if needed, while advising them to remain vigilant against potential secondary hazards following the earthquakes.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.