A 7.7-magnitude earthquake rocks Panama

A 7.7-magnitude earthquake shook the central coast of Panama on Friday, prompting tsunami warnings for several neighboring countries.

The earthquake hit around 1:56 p.m. ET, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Around three hours later, a second powerful earthquake measuring at 6.6 magnitude, struck Panama after a series of aftershocks, which registered magnitudes between 4.8 and 5.8, rippled across the southern tip of the country.

Seismologists at the University of Panama recorded more than 45 aftershocks, though many were too weak to be felt.

The U.S. Tsunami Center flagged tsunami warnings for Ecuador, Colombia, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Mexico, El Salvador, Costa Rica and Peru, as well as Panama, shortly after the quake.

The initial earthquake was centered about 6 miles southwest of the remote community of Pitaloza Arriba, near Panama’s southern tip, the USGS said. It struck at a depth of 6 miles.

Tremors were also felt in the capital, Panama City, where buildings shook and people evacuated into the streets. The city is known for its tall skyscrapers.

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

“We felt it very strongly. It knocked things over in the kitchen, but we’re OK, though we’re very…

Original source: https://www.nbcnews.com/business