7.6 magnitude earthquake felt in Panama - USGS

A strong 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck near the southern coast of Panama at a 10km depth, according to the US Geological Survey.

There were no immediate reports of damage in Panama, while television footage showed people evacuating buildings.

The earthquake was downgraded from an earlier estimate of 8.0 magnitude.

Tremors were felt in Panama City, where buildings shook and people evacuated into the streets.

Visibly shaken residents gathered outside as they waited for news of the earthquake's impact.

"We felt it very strongly," said one resident from the Herrera province, where the earthquake struck.

"It knocked things over in the kitchen, but we're okay, though we're very scared. Everyone is outside, scared."

The US Tsunami Warning System showed potential tsunami threats across much of Central America's Pacific coast as well as in Colombia and Ecuador.

"Hazardous tsunami waves from this earthquake are possible within the next three hours" in that area, the monitor said, warning that people could be swept out to sea or crushed by debris in the water.

The quake was felt in the capital of Panama City as well as in the capital of neighbouring Costa Rica, according to Reuters witnesses.

Local media reported that the quake was also felt in parts of neighbouring Colombia.

Panama's Civil Protection said it was investigating possible damages in regions near where the earthquake took place.