Magnitude 7.4 Earthquake Temporarily Halts Panama Metro Lines 1 and 2

The Metro system in Panama experienced a temporary halt on Monday as a precautionary measure following a powerful magnitude 7.4 earthquake that originated in Colombia but was felt across various Panamanian provinces.

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The service of Lines 1 and 2 of the Metro of Panama was momentarily stopped this Monday as a security measure, after the strong magnitude 7.4 earthquake registered in the morning, with its epicenter in Colombia, which was felt in different provinces of Panama.

Service on Metro Lines 1 and 2 was suspended shortly after the tremor. This brief shutdown enabled the Fire Department to conduct thorough safety inspections of the metro's infrastructure. The intensity of the earthquake necessitated these checks to ensure the system's integrity and public safety.

Following the completion of the inspections and confirmation that no risks were present, the metro service was promptly reinstated. The Metro de Panamá confirmed that both lines are now operational after all safety verifications were concluded.

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The preventive suspension allowed the Fire Department to carry out the corresponding safety inspections in the system's facilities, given the intensity of the seismic movement.

During the suspension, passengers were instructed to evacuate the trains in an orderly manner via megaphones. At the turnstiles, company personnel prevented new passengers from entering as part of the safety protocol. The temporary halt led to significant crowding at bus stops as commuters heading to work sought alternative transportation.

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After completing the reviews and confirming that there was no risk, the service was restored.