Abstract
In this study we have reviewed original documental sources and interviewed old persons with the purpose of better assess the seismic potential of the North Panama Deformed Belt.
Based on the found seismicity pattern we have subdivided this region into three main segments: Eastern, Central and Wester. The Western Segment is also subdivided into two subsegments: western and eastern. The Western subsegment has been shaken by strong events in 1798, 1822 and 1904. Large events from this subregion are apparently accompanied by coastal vertical ground deformation. The Eastern subsegment has been shaken by strong events in 1910, 1916 and probably in 1867.
The Central Segment, which extends from 81.4°Wto 80. 0°W, shows an absence of large historical events. The Eastern Segment has been shaken by strong events in 1879, 1882, 1909 and 1930. Large events from the Panama Deformed Belt usually cause local tsunamis.