"A terrifying experience," is how a Cuban national described the scene in Panama when a powerful earthquake struck the country on Friday, October 9th. A video shared on Facebook captures the atmosphere on a street following the seismic event.
The 44-second footage reveals numerous people outside buildings, with some gathered on sidewalks and others halted on the road, as cars and other vehicles navigate between pedestrians. Various individuals are seen conversing or observing the buildings and traffic, in a moment of shared unease after the quake.
The video focuses on the aftermath on the street, not on the precise moment of the tremor. It does not independently confirm structural damage or pinpoint the exact location of the recording. Its value lies in highlighting the reactions of those present at the scene.
Seismic Activity Shakes Panama with a 7.7 Magnitude Earthquake
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) recorded the main earthquake at a magnitude of 7.7. It occurred at 12:56 p.m. local time, with the epicenter approximately 12 kilometers west-southwest of Pitaloza Arriba and a depth of 12.6 kilometers.
The tremor was felt across various parts of the nation, prompting many to evacuate buildings and seek open spaces. Subsequent aftershocks were reported, with the USGS documenting magnitudes of 5.5 and 5.8 later that afternoon.
The earthquake's magnitude was adjusted as agencies reviewed new data. Initially, CiberCuba reported the quake when the USGS estimated it at 7.6; the updated figures now reflect a 7.7 magnitude.
Tsunami Threat Withdrawn After Initial Concerns
Following the earthquake, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC), under the NOAA's jurisdiction, evaluated a potential threat to Pacific coastal areas. However, a subsequent bulletin on October 9th confirmed that there was no longer a tsunami warning or threat for this event.
The Cuban witness's video joins a collection of images and narratives shared on social media regarding the emotional impact of the earthquake. Although the footage cannot measure the quake's intensity, it clearly depicts people remaining on the streets after a day of shock and anxiety.
Understanding the Impact of the Panama Earthquake
What was the magnitude of the earthquake in Panama?
The main earthquake in Panama was recorded at a magnitude of 7.7 by the USGS.
Was there a tsunami warning after the earthquake?
Initially, there was a potential tsunami threat evaluated, but it was later withdrawn, and no tsunami warning was in effect.
How did residents in Panama react to the earthquake?
Many people evacuated buildings and gathered in open spaces, as captured in videos shared on social media.