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Powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake hits Panama, triggers tsunami warnings

Published Friday, October 9, 2026 · Updated October 9

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  • Earthquake Impact and Tsunami Warnings — 5 sources

Media Analysis

AI synthesis

A powerful earthquake, reported as either 7.6 or 7.7 magnitude, struck off Panama's southern coast, triggering tsunami warnings across Central and South America and Hawaii. The quake caused some damage and was felt in Panama City, but the Panama Canal remained operational. Initial tsunami warnings were later lifted.

What We Know — Key Points

  • A powerful earthquake, reported as either 7.6 or 7.7 magnitude, struck off Panama's southern coast on Friday, October 9, 2026, at approximately 1:56 p.m. ET, centered near Pitaloza Arriba at a depth of 12.6 kilometers.
  • The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings along the west coast of Central and South America, including countries like Colombia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Chile, and Hawaii, though initial warnings were later lifted and a Pacific-wide tsunami was not expected.
  • Tremors were felt strongly in Panama City, causing some damage to buildings and a highway, and leading to evacuations.
  • The critical Panama Canal remained unaffected and continued normal operations.

What Is Claimed — Perspectives

Earthquake Impact and Tsunami Warnings
  • The Guardian

    A powerful 7.6-magnitude earthquake struck Panama, triggering tsunami warnings along the west coast of Central and South America. The quake caused severe damage to buildings and a highway, with tremors felt strongly in Panama City.

  • The Jerusalem Post

    A 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck near Panama's southern coast, causing some damage and electricity disruptions, but the critical Panama Canal remained unaffected. Initial tsunami warnings for several countries were later lifted.

  • Al Jazeera English

    A 7.7 magnitude earthquake has prompted tsunami warnings across several Latin American countries, including Colombia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Chile.

  • Fox News

    A powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck off Panama's southern coast, shaking the capital and prompting officials to investigate a potential tsunami threat. Aftershocks followed, and tsunami warnings were issued for several coastal areas, though a Pacific-wide tsunami is not expected.

  • Deutsche Welle

    A powerful magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck Panama, prompting a tsunami alert for coastal areas across several Central and South American countries, as well as Hawaii. Tremors were felt in Panama City, causing evacuations, but the Panama Canal reported no damage and continued normal operations.

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