Floods and landslides hit Ecuador, leaving two dead and thousands affected

Heavy rain has been affecting Ecuador since January 29, 2024, resulting in devastating floods and landslides across the country. Two fatalities were reported in Azuay Province, with four others injured in Chimborazo and Loja. The disaster has affected over 16 600 individuals, predominantly in Los Ríos, Manabí, Esmeraldas, and Guayas provinces, leading to the destruction of 36 houses and damage to 3 180 others.

Heavy rainfall has significantly impacted Ecuador since January 29, 2024, leading to widespread floods and landslides across the nation, causing casualties, and inflicting extensive damage.

The severe weather conditions have resulted in two fatalities in Azuay Province and injuries to four individuals, two each in Chimborazo and Loja.

Over 16 600 people have been affected, predominantly in the provinces of Los Ríos, Manabí, Esmeraldas, and Guayas, with 36 houses destroyed and 3 180 damaged. In response, Ecuadorian authorities are providing humanitarian assistance to those affected.

The city of Guayaquil, in the province of Guayas, experienced significant flooding, with 131 mm (5.1 inches) of rainfall recorded, affecting 41 sectors due to water accumulation and fallen trees.

In Manabí province, structural damage and the collapse of 11 electricity poles were reported due to the rainfall.

The National Committee for the Regional Study of El Niño Phenomenon (ERFEN) has attributed the severe weather to the El Niño and warned that above-normal rainfall will persist in the coastal region​​.

References:

¹ Ecuador reports floods after more than 10 hours of rains – Prensa Latina – February 9, 2024

Featured image credit: NASA/NOAA Suomi NPP/VIIRS, The Watchers