A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck southern Panama on Friday, triggering widespread tsunami warnings across Central and South America. The powerful seismic event has raised concerns for coastal communities along the Pacific Ocean.

The US National Weather Service issued immediate tsunami warnings for Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, and Guatemala following the quake. Chile’s naval Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service also issued its own warning, indicating the potential for dangerous sea level changes.

The earthquake's epicenter was located approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) southwest of the remote community of Pitaloza Arriba, according to the US Geological Survey. Residents in Panama City reported feeling strong tremors, with buildings shaking and many people evacuating to the streets in fear.

"We felt it very strongly. It knocked things over in the kitchen, but we’re okay, though we’re very scared," said Rosendo Dominguez, a resident of Herrera province, where the earthquake struck. Videos circulating on social media platforms showed structural damage in Penonome, a city situated between the epicenter and the capital, with a historic building's tower collapsing and balconies falling from a residential building.

In response to the seismic activity, Panama’s ministry of education ordered all schools to close. The region has experienced significant earthquakes this year, underscoring its vulnerability to seismic events. In June, twin earthquakes in northern Venezuela resulted in widespread devastation and significant loss of life.

Earlier in August, a magnitude 7.4 earthquake in Colombia caused at least 289 fatalities, highlighting the ongoing seismic risks in the region. The economic impact of such disasters is substantial, with post-earthquake reconstruction in Colombia estimated to cost approximately $6.4 billion.

Experts have noted that the frequency and intensity of earthquakes in the region warrant continuous monitoring and preparedness. The proximity of the recent quakes to populated areas and the subsequent tsunami warnings underscore the importance of robust early warning systems and evacuation protocols.

Questions remain regarding the extent of any potential tsunami impact and the full scope of damage caused by the earthquake. Authorities are continuing to assess the situation and provide updates to affected populations.