Magnitude 7.6 quake strikes Panama, raising Pacific tsunami concerns
A strong earthquake measuring magnitude 7.6 hit southern Panama, prompting alerts for possible tsunamis across the Pacific region.
At 6.56 am NZ time, a powerful earthquake struck the southern part of Panama with a magnitude of 7.6 and a focal depth of 33 km. The National Emergency Management Agency and GNS Science are monitoring the situation to determine if a tsunami could be generated, noting that any wave would likely take at least 12 hours to arrive in New Zealand. Early reports indicated no damage in Panama, but video showed residents evacuating structures.
Tsunami alerts were issued for other Central American nations as well as Colombia and Ecuador. The quake was also felt in Panama City and across the border in Costa Rica. Officials continue to assess the event and advise the public on safety measures.
How this was covered
- Centrist coverage is the most divided on this story
- Coverage peaked at 32 outlets in a single hour
Why it matters
A large quake near the Pacific could trigger tsunamis affecting multiple coastal nations.
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