Panama is reeling after a powerful earthquake struck the nation, causing widespread structural damage, triggering power outages, and sending shockwaves through local communities. In response, President José Raúl Mulino traveled directly to Penonomé to coordinate emergency operations and personally assess the destruction.

 

### Local Impact and Widespread Damage

 

Reports from local media highlight severe structural damage across affected regions, including a church and a hotel in Penonomé. Photos shared on social media by former President Ricardo Martinelli revealed that his home in Soñá, Veraguas province, collapsed during the quake.

 

In coastal and rural communities near La Miel, residents faced terrifying conditions. Local resident Benjamin Gonzalez shared that several homes in his neighborhood were badly damaged. After the quake cut off electricity, terrified residents gathered in the town square, fearful of what might come next.

 

> "People are terrified to return to their homes because everyone is afraid another major quake could strike," noted local resident David Castillo.

 

Their fears are not unfounded: Panama’s geosciences institute reported **more than 80 aftershocks**, including at least one major tremor registering above a **6.0 magnitude**. An initial tsunami warning for the eastern Pacific Ocean was issued shortly after the quake but has since been lifted.

 

### Infrastructure, Travel, and the Panama Canal

 

Authorities have taken major precautionary measures nationwide to ensure public safety:

 

* **Schools:** The Ministry of Education suspended classes across the entire country while structural assessments are conducted.

* **Air Travel:** Panama City’s international airport—a major regional hub—was temporarily shut down. The Civil Aeronautics Authority confirmed that multiple incoming flights were diverted to alternative airports as a safety precaution.

* **Panama Canal:** The Panama Canal Authority confirmed that shipping operations connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans remain **unaffected and operating as normal**.

 

### International Support and Official Response

 

President Mulino urged citizens to remain calm and cautioned against spreading panic or disorder while emergency crews work to reach isolated communities.

 

Offers of international aid have poured in rapidly:

 

* **United States:** US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on 𝕏 that his office is closely monitoring the situation and rapidly mobilizing resources and personnel at the request of the Panamanian government.

* **Regional Allies:** Leaders from Colombia, Ecuador, and Guatemala have expressed their solidarity and offered emergency assistance to help Panama recover