A magnitude 7.6 earthquake strikes Panama near Tonosi

A strong earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 7.6 struck Panama on 9 October 2026, according to UK Foreign Office Travel. The Instituto de Geociencias de la Universidad de Panama recorded the earthquake at a depth of 10 kilometres, approximately 39 kilometres west of the town of Tonosi. Tremors were felt across much of the nation while officials began assessing the damage. [1]

Initial tsunami warnings generated by the quake have now been lifted, UK Foreign Office Travel reported. Authorities advised individuals located in coastal regions to stay vigilant, adhere to instructions from local officials, and move away from the shoreline if they are instructed to do so. Travel advice also warned the public to prepare for potential aftershocks. [1]

Panama is located in Central America, bordered by Costa Rica to the west and Colombia to the southeast. It has a population of over 4 million people, with nearly half residing in the metropolitan area of the capital, Panama City. [2]

The country operates as a constitutional presidential republic led by President Jose Raul Mulino, who took office in 2024. Its economy relies heavily on the Panama Canal, which was completed in 1914 and handles approximately 6 percent of global maritime trade. [3]

British citizens who are affected by the earthquake and require assistance from the United Kingdom government are urged to contact emergency assistance telephone lines, according to UK Foreign Office Travel. Travelers are advised to check their travel insurance coverage and continue following local safety updates. [1]