Magnitude 7.7 earthquake hits southern Panama; no casualties reported
A magnitude-7.7 earthquake hit southern Panama; more than 40 aftershocks followed but major infrastructure reported running normally.
A strong earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7 struck southern Panama, causing damage to some buildings but, so far, no reports of major destruction or fatalities.
The U.S. Geological Survey recorded the quake at a depth of 12.6 kilometres and placed its epicentre in a sparsely populated area roughly 200 kilometres from the capital.
Aftershocks and local operations
More than 40 subsequent tremors were registered in the hours that followed the main event. Despite the seismic activity, operations at critical sites continued.
The Panama Canal and the Cobre Panama copper mine both reported that their operations were proceeding normally. Tocumen International Airport lifted a temporary suspension on flights and resumed normal activity.
Authorities and emergency services continue monitoring the situation and assessing damage in affected communities; at this stage there are no confirmed casualties.
Photo: AP)
