Panama earthquake: Sinaproc activates national monitoring; no affected persons reported

Panama experienced tremors Monday morning after a significant earthquake registered with a magnitude of 7.2, originating in Colombia. The quake, which occurred at 7:34 a.m. local time, had its epicenter approximately 350 to 359 kilometers southeast of Jaqué, Darién, and a depth of 76 kilometers. The Panamanian Geoscientific Institute (IGC) reported the magnitude as 7.2, while Colombia's Geological Service placed it at 7.6.

The seismic activity was felt in numerous provinces, including Panama, Panama Oeste, Chiriquí, Veraguas, Coclé, Herrera, Los Santos, Colón, Darién, and Bocas del Toro. Communities from La Chorrera to Changuinola reported feeling the movement.

Despite the intensity of the earthquake, Panama's National Civil Protection System (Sinaproc) announced that as of 9:31 a.m., there were no reports of affected individuals. Essential services and infrastructure also appeared largely intact. Health facilities and educational centers reported no significant issues, although some schools initiated precautionary evacuation plans. Power supply remained stable, and transportation services were undergoing preventive checks. The Tocumen International Airport was inspecting one of its runways, and a bridge construction project in Darién was also being examined. The Panama Metro system temporarily suspended operations as a safety precaution but has since been restored.