Severe magnitude 7.6 earthquake strikes Panama

A magnitude 7.6 earthquake has struck near Panama in Central America.

The earthquake was measured at a depth of 33km and was initially recorded at magnitude 8 before being adjusted.

The shaking set off panic in the capital Panama City, AFP reported.

USGS said the epicentre was 10km from the small town of Pitaloza Arriba in the south-centre of Panama.

The National Emergency Management Agency said there is no tsunami threat for New Zealand.

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said tsunami waves of up to 3m above tide levels were possible along the coast of Panama and up to 1m for some coasts of Ecuador.

Tremors were felt in Panama City, where buildings shook and people evacuated into the streets, AP reported.

“Visibly shaken residents gathered outside as they waited for news of the quake’s impact.”

More to come...