Massive 7.6 magnitude earthquake strikes Panama as officials investigate potential tsunami threat

A powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck off Panama's southern coast Friday, shaking the country's capital as officials investigated a potential tsunami threat.

The U.S.

Geological Survey initially measured the earthquake at magnitude 8.0 before lowering its estimate to 7.6.

The quake struck at 1:56 p.m.

ET, approximately 6 miles beneath the surface, near Pitaloza Arriba, Panama.

This is a developing story; check back later for updates.