panama earthquake
Panama earthquake struck just 60km from David. emsc-csem.org

A powerful earthquake has struck Panama near the city of David, with experts warning of aftershocks and fires.

The magnitude 6.7 earthquake hit the area at 8.54am GMT – or just before 4am local time.

The US Geological Survey said the earthquake struck at a depth of 10km. The epicentre was 12 miles from Punta de Burica, 25 miles from Puerto Armuelles and 36 miles from David, which has a population of over 140,000.

The USGS warned that secondary aftershocks are normally less violent than the main earthquake but can be strong enough to damage already weakened structures.

There have been no immediate reports of casualties or damage in the region, but the quake was felt in Panama City and towns across both Panama and Costa Rica.

Experts also said there is no tsunami threat.

The earthquake comes just two days after Panama was hit by another strong earthquake. The 6.0 magnitude earthquake was felt across Costa Rica and Panama and hit at a depth of 36km, about 18km from Punta de Burica.

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