Panama Hit By 7.7-Magnitude Earthquake, Tsunami Alert In 9 Countries

New Delhi: A tsunami alert has been issued for nine countries in the region following a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in Panama. According to the US Tsunami Warning System, dangerous waves could affect parts of Central and South America following this strong earthquake. The list of countries at risk of a tsunami includes Panama, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador and Mexico.

According to Reuters, the US tsunami warning system has indicated a potential tsunami threat for a large portion of the Pacific coast of Central America. It also issued a warning for Colombia and Ecuador. The system also said Hawaii is also at risk.

Earthquake tremors felt in surrounding countries

According to the US Geological Survey, the epicenter of the earthquake was about 10 kilometers from the remote settlement of Pitaloza Arriba, near the southern tip of Panama. This area is a rural settlement, so there was little damage. However, the tremor was so strong that it was felt in neighboring countries.

Tremors were felt in Costa Rica and Panama

According to the Associated Press, the tremor was felt in Panama City, where buildings shook and people ran into the streets. Many people rushed out of buildings and gathered in the streets to await news of the earthquake's impact. The tremor was also felt in Panama City and the capital of Costa Rica.

How much damage has been caused by the earthquake so far?

There were no immediate reports of damage in Panama, and the Panama Canal Authority said the waterway was operating normally. Omar Smith of the National Civil Protection Service said the damage was mainly in the central provinces of Veraguas, Herrera and Los Santos. He told the Telemetro Reporta news channel that there were no reports of damage in the capital, known for its hundreds of tall buildings. Smith urged people to remain calm.