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The magnitude‑7.7 earthquake that struck Panama on Friday set off more than 200 aftershocks, injuring at least 27 people and damaging nearly 900 homes, prompting a national state of emergency. Authorities have earmarked up to $100 million for relief, and the United States has pledged $5 million plus a 20‑member response team to assist. While no fatalities have been confirmed, officials caution that the death toll could increase as damage assessments continue. [[1]]