Powerful 7.7 Earthquake Strikes Panama, Causing Injuries

A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Panama on Friday, collapsing buildings and roads while injuring at least 27 people with no reported fatalities.

The shallow tremor caused panic in Panama City, located about 200 kilometers from the epicenter, where residents evacuated skyscrapers and minor damage occurred.

President Jose Raul Mulino declared a major disaster as authorities worked to reach isolated areas like Tonosi in Los Santos province, though the Panama Canal remained unaffected.