Panama Quake Released Century of Accumulated Energy; Geologist Says Similar Event Unlikely Soon

A recent earthquake in Panama released energy accumulated over roughly a century in the Azuero-Soná fault system, according to Néstor Luque, director of the Institute of Geosciences at the University of Panama. While earthquakes remain unpredictable, Luque suggests another quake of similar magnitude is not expected in the area. The statement provides a preliminary scientific assessment of the event's significance and local seismic risk.