United States deploys urgent assistance to Panama following powerful earthquake
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the U.S. government has begun mobilizing resources and specialized personnel to provide support to Panama, following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the southern region of the Central American country last Friday, October 9.
Washington’s response addresses a formal request made by Panamanian authorities. As detailed by Rubio through his official channels, the State Department is coordinating logistics efforts to respond effectively to the immediate needs of the population affected by this seismic event.
The United States stands with the Panamanian people during this difficult time.
Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State
Details of the seismic movement
The natural phenomenon occurred at 12:56 in the afternoon, local time. Although a magnitude of 7.6 was initially estimated, the United States Geological Survey adjusted the figure to 7.7. The technical data on the earthquake indicate:
- Epicenter located 12 kilometers from Tonosí, in the south of Panamanian territory.
- Distance of 239 kilometers from Panama City.
- The tremor was felt with intensity in various provinces, causing the preventive evacuation of multiple buildings in the capital’s banking district.
Coordination and assistance
While the deployment of aid has been confirmed, the State Department has not yet specified the exact volume of personnel or the type of specific equipment that will be sent, as the situation remains under constant assessment of material and human damage in the most affected areas.
To facilitate assistance to citizens, U.S. authorities have set up consular assistance telephone lines. This international collaboration is fundamental for the rescue and damage mitigation efforts led by the Government of Panama in these times of national emergency.
