Panama: A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurs in Chiriqui Province at around 04:54 July 8

A magnitude-5.3 earthquake occurred in Chiriqui Province in western Panama, close to the border with Costa Rica, at around 04:54 EST July 8. The epicenter was about [1.2 km (0.7 miles) east of Santo Domingo, Chiriqui Province. The tremor occurred at a depth of about 31 km (19 miles), and moderate shaking was probably felt in parts of Chiriqui Province close to the epicenter, as well as light shaking throughout parts of western Panama and central and eastern Costa Rica. There have been no initial reports of damage or casualties as a result of the earthquake; however, significant damage is unlikely. It could take several hours until authorities can conduct comprehensive damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Light aftershocks are likely over the coming days.

Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Minor disruptions could occur during shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found. Utility outages are possible, particularly near the earthquake's epicenter.