7.7-magnitude earthquake strikes Panama, collapsing buildings

"A powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck the southern region of Panama, destroying a number of structures and shaking the capital, officials said.

The earthquake struck shortly before 2 p.m. EDT, with its center about 9 miles southwest of Pitazola Arriba.
In the capital Panama City, photos from the aftermath show several buildings partially collapsed while residents fled to the streets.
Suspension cables along the Panama Canal were seen shaking, but authorities said the canal continued to operate as normal.
Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino said he received offers of aid from several countries in the region." msn