PANAMA CITY (Kashmir English): Strong earthquake tremors were felt in Panama City and the Panama region, according to foreign media reports.
The US Geological Survey recorded the earthquake’s magnitude at 7.6.
According to news agencies, a tsunami warning has been issued for several countries following the quake, and authorities have warned of potential risks in coastal areas.
The US Tsunami Warning Center has stated there is a risk of dangerous tsunami waves striking the coasts of Panama and Colombia within the next three hours.
Tsunami warnings have also been issued for Mexico, El Salvador, Ecuador, Peru, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Costa Rica.
Authorities are monitoring the situation in the affected coastal areas; further details regarding potential casualties, property damage, and the tsunami threat are yet to emerge.
Why do earthquakes occur, and how is their magnitude measured?
The Earth’s outer layer consists of various large and small tectonic plates that are constantly in motion.
When these plates collide, move apart, or slide past one another, energy accumulated within the Earth is suddenly released, resulting in earthquake tremors.
The magnitude and location of an earthquake are determined using modern instruments. The depth of the earthquake also influences its impact; shallow earthquakes can be felt more intensely.
