Minor 3.6 Earthquake Near Caldera, Panama
A minor magnitude 3.6 earthquake struck 4 km WSW of Caldera, Panama on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 at 04:50:45 AM UTC. This shallow crustal event (10.0 km depth) released energy equivalent to approximately 4 tons of TNT. Here is the verified US telemetry, live epicenter map, and ground shaking assessment.
(4 km WSW of)Seismic Telemetry Specifications
3.6ML
Minor Seismic Class
10.0km
Crustal Layer
8.635° N, 82.420° W
GPS Coordinates
4 tons
TNT Equivalent Power
US
USGS Real-time Feed
Epicenter Location & Tectonic Fault Map
Is This Earthquake Dangerous?
A magnitude 3.6 event is classified as a minor earthquake. Often felt by people indoors, especially on upper floors. Hanging objects may swing slightly; structural damage is extremely rare.
Estimated Shaking Across Nearby Communities
Felt by nearly everyone. Sleeping people awakened; small unstable objects overturned.
Felt by almost no one except under extraordinarily favorable conditions.
Did You Feel This Earthquake?
Help seismologists and community members map real-world ground shaking near Panama.
Your immediate response verifies shaking boundaries and helps ground-truth instrumental models.
What Does Magnitude 3.6 Mean?
Earthquake strength is measured on a logarithmic scale. Compare this event with the full seismic scale:
Logarithmic Energy Multiplier
Because seismic scales are logarithmic, each whole integer increase represents:
Why Did This Earthquake Happen?
Panama's seismicity is fundamentally governed by its tectonic setting: Complex tectonic deformation between the Panama Microplate, Nazca Plate to the south, and Caribbean Plate to the north. Major regional fault structures include Panama Deformed Belt, North Panama Deformed Belt, Balboa Transform Fault.
Originating at a depth of 10.0 km (Earth's Crust (0–70 km)), this rupture occurred occurred within the brittle upper crust. shallow earthquakes produce the highest peak ground acceleration and the sharpest surface shaking.
Aftershock Outlook & Secondary Tremors
Seismologists note that minor aftershocks remain common in the 24 to 48 hours following tremors of magnitude 3.6. According to statistical seismic models, there is roughly a 5% probability of a subsequent event of equal or greater strength occurring in the same fault zone. Residents in Panama are advised to check living spaces for unsecured items.
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Earthquake Safety Action Plan
Complete Safety Guide →- •Drop, Cover, and Hold On: Take cover beneath a sturdy table or desk.
- •Stay indoors away from exterior glass windows and heavy unanchored fixtures.
- •If outdoors, move into an open area away from power lines and building facades.
- •Inspect utilities for damaged gas lines, water leaks, or electrical hazards.
- •Expect Aftershocks: Secondary tremors frequently strike after significant events.
- •Avoid damaged structures and listen to official emergency broadcasts.
- •Maintain a 72-hour emergency go-bag with water, food, and first aid.
- •Anchor heavy furniture, water heaters, and appliances to structural studs.
- •Establish a family emergency communication protocol and meeting point.
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