Accra:A magnitude 7.5 earthquake shook Panama last week, followed by 746 aftershocks. Scientists are currently examining reported changes along the Pacific coast.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Nestor Luque, director of the University of Panama's Institute of Geosciences, stated that aftershocks of this magnitude could persist for one to two months. The earthquake occurred at a depth of less than 10 kilometers, releasing energy that continues to cause tectonic adjustments.

Seismic records indicate that the aftershocks are decreasing in magnitude. Luque noted that separate fault systems are responsible for additional earthquakes recorded in Chiriqui and Bocas del Toro, unrelated to the initial quake on October 9.

Researchers are investigating coastal changes where residents have noticed exposed rocks and receding sea levels. Fault movements may cause coastal land to rise or sink, altering the landscape.

Geologists are also exploring changes in water color, possibly linked to underground water interacting with minerals released by the quake. Chemical tests are necessary to confirm these findings.

In the southern province of Los Santos, residents of Isla Canas reported that the island seemed to have split. Geologists will determine if fractures extend across the island to the sea, which could indicate fault movement.

The Institute of Geosciences estimates that strengthening seismic monitoring would require around 150 instruments, while a nationwide early-warning system could need 700 sensors.#