Strong and shallow M6.7 earthquake hits off the coast of Panama

A strong and shallow earthquake registered by the USGS as M6.7 hit off the coast of Panama at 21:15 UTC on July 21, 2021. The agency is reporting a depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). EMSC is reporting the same magnitude and depth.

The epicenter was located 69 km (43 miles) S of Punta de Burica and 96 km (60 miles) S of Puerto Armuelles, Chiriqui, Panama.

There are about 25 000 people living within 100 km (62 miles).

191 000 people are estimated to have felt moderate shaking and 4 521 000 light.

Image credit: TW/SAM, Google

The USGS issued a green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage.

Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are a mix of vulnerable and earthquake-resistant construction. The predominant vulnerable building types are mud wall and adobe block construction.

Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides and liquefaction that might have contributed to losses.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Selected cities exposed

Regional seismicity

Featured image credit: TW/SAM, Google