Panama declares emergency after powerful earthquake damages hundreds of buildings

A powerful earthquake struck Panama on October 9, shaking buildings in the capital and sending people outside. The Independent reported a magnitude of 7.7 and cited the U.S. Geological Survey placing the epicentre about 10 kilometres southwest of Pitaloza Arriba.

The shaking reached well beyond the epicentre. CBS News reported that buildings shook more than 100 miles away in Panama City, while Sydney Morning Herald said the first quake was felt in neighbouring Colombia.

The reported magnitude is not consistent across the coverage. Most outlets give 7.7, but The Hindu reported 7.6, and RT en Español - Noticias later described the earthquake as magnitude 7.5. The supplied reports do not explain those differences.

On October 9, evacuations spread as people left buildings, shops, schools and homes, according to Perfil.com. Mint reported that the capital's international airport was evacuated.

A second earthquake, measured at magnitude 6.6, struck hours later, CBS News reported. South China Morning Post described collapsed buildings near the epicentre and a series of aftershocks.

Tsunami warnings initially extended to nine countries, according to The Independent. Later on October 9, CNN Brasil reported that the warning had been cancelled, citing the United States National Tsunami Warning Center.

By October 10, the damage figures were clearer. ABC reported at least 27 minor injuries, about 300 evacuees and more than 400 affected buildings, including 142 residences and 188 schools. Arab News reported no deaths.

The government declared a state of emergency on October 10, CNN Brasil reported. Flights had resumed by that day, according to ANSA.it, which also reported no deaths or missing people.

By October 11, the focus had shifted to clearing damage and coping with continuing tremors. Le Monde reported more than a hundred aftershocks since Friday, with some residents sleeping outdoors as a precaution. Its latest account described roughly 30 people with minor injuries, compared with the earlier count of at least 27.

The scale of destruction has been described differently across the coverage. CBC Top Stories reported that Panama appeared to have escaped widespread destruction, while Le Monde quoted president José Raul Mulino describing a major disaster and completely collapsed roads in the hardest hit areas. The documented damage includes hundreds of buildings, but the supplied coverage does not establish a final nationwide total.

The immediate questions are how much damage inspections will uncover and which buildings can be used safely. Business Line - Home reported that authorities were assessing structural damage and safety risks, while Mint identified damage across Herrera, Coclé, Los Santos and Veraguas.

Further shaking remains a concern during cleanup. Scientific American Content: Global Science warned that strong aftershocks could follow, and Le Monde reported continuing public concern on October 11. The supplied coverage gives no timetable for completing inspections or repairs.