A powerful earthquake struck southern Panama on Friday morning. The Guardian reported a magnitude of 7.6.

The New York Times reported 7.7 and called that figure preliminary. United Press International and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation also reported 7.7.

The Guardian placed the quake near Panama's southern tip. It was about 14 kilometers (9 miles) southwest of Pitaloza A. The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings along Central and South America's west coast.

The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation said coastline from Mexico to Peru was covered. The Guardian said waves could reach as far as Ecuador and Mexico.

The Associated Press reported that the tsunami warning was later lifted. The Guardian reported 13 aftershocks after the earthquake.

The Associated Press also reported a second earthquake with magnitude 6.6. Evacuations were reported after the quakes.

United Press International reported the earthquake destroyed several structures in southern Panama. Residents said tremors were felt over 200 kilometers away in Panama City. Panama's last major quake with widespread damage was in 1991.