Please refer to the attached file. Situation On 9 October, Panama experienced one of the strongest earthquakes in its history. With a magnitude of 7. 5, an epicentre on the Azuero Peninsula, and more than 400 aftershocks recorded to date, the earthquake affected several provinces, causing severe damage to homes and critical infrastructure in communities across Panama’s countryside. As of 12 October, authorities reported over 3, 000 affected homes, damage to more than 650 schools, at least 27 people injured, and hundreds displaced, evacuated, and nearly 600 staying in 14 temporary shelters. Among those affected are refugee families, as well as other vulnerable populations. The full extent of the losses has not yet been quantified, but the Government declared a state of emergency to mobilize up to USD 100 million for response efforts. President Mulino reported that more than 6, 000 people have been affected and that the government is implementing recovery measures, including a housing reconstruction programme. Heavy rainfall, rising river levels and landslides in affected areas have hindered the delivery of humanitarian assistance and the assessment of the most urgent needs. Several communities remain inaccessible, with no access roads, safe drinking water or electricity. UNHCR joined the Government of Panama-led response and has mobilized over 33 metric tons of core relief items (CRIs) to date, including family tents, blankets, mosquito nets, kitchen sets, a rub hall and other essential supplies. The Agency remains in contact with authorities and community leaders, supporting efforts to address the most urgent needs, particularly for the most vulnerable.
UNHCR Emergency Response: Earthquake in Panama – October 13 2026
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