Saturday, October 10, 2026

UNICEF expresses sympathy for children, families as earthquake rocks Panama

UNICEF said it was ready to support the Government of Panama’s response if needed.

• October 10, 2026
Panama quake
Panama quake

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) on Friday expressed concern and sympathy for children and other victims of 7.7 magnitude earthquake that rocked Panama.

In a statement, UNICEF said it stood in solidarity with the children, adolescents and families affected by the earthquake that struck Panama’s Pacific coast on October 9, 2026.

The statement noted, “UNICEF’s primary concern is for children and families near the epicenter. Earthquakes place children at risk of injury and family separation, and can leave them without shelter, safe drinking water, health care or access to education.”

UNICEF added that while national authorities were assessing the impact, it was ready to support the Government of Panama’s response if needed. 

It noted, “We urge families living in Panama and neighboring countries to follow the instructions of local authorities.”

A powerful 7.7 magnitue earthquake struck the southern Pacific coast of Panama on Friday, damaging buildings and other infrastructure.

According to U.S. Geological Survey, about 4.6 million people felt the severe tremors caused by the earthquake.

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