The 7.6 magnitude earthquake that shook Panama this Friday, October 9 has caused moments of alarm among the population, especially in Panama City, where the tremor has been felt in various buildings and numerous citizens have taken to the streets.
According to the initial data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS), disseminated by Associated Press, the epicenter has been located approximately 14 kilometers southwest of Pitaloza Arriba, near the southern tip of the country.
For the moment, the initial information consulted does not allow confirming a number of fatalities, injuries, or damaged buildings as a consequence of this earthquake. The absence of a balance does not mean that the existence of damage has been ruled out.
Evacuations in Panama City
The seismic movement has reached the Panamanian capital, where evacuations of buildings have been recorded following the tremors.
The perception of the earthquake in a city far from the epicenter demonstrates the reach of the movement, although it does not allow determining alone the severity of the damages.
The consequences depend on factors such as the intensity of the tremor in each locality, the conditions of the terrain, and the characteristics of the constructions.
What is known about the victims and the damages
The first reports published do not yet offer a closed balance of affected persons.
To establish the number of victims and material damages, it will be necessary to have updated communications from the Panamanian emergency authorities and the inspections carried out in the areas near the epicenter.
The preliminary figures may change during the first hours, especially when the earthquake affects communities far from the main urban centers.
Monitoring continues after the earthquake
After a large magnitude earthquake, aftershocks may occur, some of which are perceptible to the population.
In addition to seismic monitoring, emergency agencies must assess the possible effects on coastal areas and maintain protection recommendations while there is risk.
The evolution of the coming hours will allow knowing with greater precision the consequences of the earthquake and determining if personal or material damages have occurred.