PANAMA — UNICEF estimates that 38,000 people, including 8,300 children, are in need of humanitarian assistance following a 7.5-magnitude earthquake that struck Panama on October 9, 2026. Preliminary government reports indicate that 656 educational facilities sustained damage nationwide, while authorities reported damage to at least 25 health facilities.

Major impacts from the earthquake were confirmed in the provinces of Veraguas, Coclé, Herrera and Los Santos. The quake caused damage to homes, schools, health facilities, and critical water and transport infrastructure.

Classes were suspended on October 12, 2026, while structural safety inspections continue. UNICEF and the Ministry of Health deployed 72 m² tents to support the continuity of health services at facilities affected by the earthquake, and the agency has made 16 tents available to health authorities as it continues to assess additional needs.

UNICEF requires US$2.5 million to support life-saving assistance and early recovery efforts for children and families affected by the earthquake. "Three days after the earthquake, children and families continue to experience fear and distress as aftershocks persist, with thousands of children in the hardest-hit communities facing disruptions to essential services, including safe water and education," said Olga Isaza, UNICEF Representative in Panama. "UNICEF is working closely with the Government of Panama and partners to support affected children and families in the weeks ahead," she said.

What's New

USGS recorded a magnitude 7.7 earthquake 12 km WSW of Pitaloza Arriba, Panama on October 9, 2026. At least 16 bridges were damaged in the earthquake, according to the Panama Earthquake Situation Report No. 3 (as of October 12, 2026). The Ministry of Education (MEDUCA) reported 419 educational facilities affected nationwide, with 35 schools destroyed, according to an October 11, 2026 situation report. Primary sources: earthquake.usgs.gov, reliefweb.int