Panama declares emergency after 7.7-magnitude earthquake

October 11, New Delhi: Panama declared a state of emergency on October 10 following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake and multiple aftershocks that struck the country on October 9.

At a news conference, ministers provided an update on the damage and the number of people injured. They added that no deaths had been reported so far.

The state of emergency is expected to help authorities accelerate recovery efforts, assess the extent of the damage and deliver humanitarian assistance to affected communities.

More than 40 aftershocks were recorded in the hours following the main quake.

Meanwhile, residents across Panama continued to grapple with the aftermath of the earthquake and subsequent aftershocks, which damaged structures and caused buildings to collapse in several areas.

Los Santos province was among the hardest-hit regions. Buildings in Tonosí and Macaracas either collapsed or sustained severe damage, while patients at a hospital in Las Tablas were moved outdoors as a precaution.

Despite the tremors, the Panama Canal and the Cobre Panama copper mine reported normal operations, while Tocumen International Airport lifted its temporary suspension of flights.

On October 10, India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar expressed solidarity with the government and people of Panama following an earthquake on October 9, extending prayers to those injured and affected by the disaster.

In a post shared on X, the EAM said, 'India stands with the Government and people of Panama following the earthquake. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with all those injured and affected, especially the families who have suffered loss and hardship.'

Meanwhile, the Ministry of External Affairs also stated, 'India conveys solidarity with the Government and people of Panama, following the earthquake.'

(Caption 1: This photo taken on October 10, 2026, shows a street view after an earthquake in Penonome, Panama.)

(Caption 2: This photo taken on October 10, 2026, shows products scattered on the floor of a supermarket in Penonome, Panama after a powerful earthquake struck the country.)

(Caption 3: Snapshot EAM Jaishankar's post on X on October 10, 2026, expressing solidarity with the government and people of Panama following an earthquake.) 

Source & Wire Service: Prasar Bharati SHABD (DD / Akashvani News)