Feb 23 β€’ 14:12 UTC πŸ‡ͺπŸ‡¨ Ecuador El Universo (ES)

Intense rains cause flooding and power outages in Manta and Portoviejo

Intense rains in Manta and Portoviejo have led to flooding and power outages as streets become waterlogged and drains are obstructed by debris.

In the early hours of Monday, heavy rains inundated various areas of Manta and Portoviejo, causing significant flooding. Streets in the Las OrquΓ­deas neighborhood of Portoviejo experienced severe water accumulation, while the Jocay neighborhood in Manta also reported similar flooding incidents. The main issue identified was the clogging of drainage systems by debris, which exacerbated the flooding situation. Municipal winter brigades were deployed to clean the drainage systems and remove blockages in the area along the Burro River to facilitate the flow of water.

The rainfall ranged from light to heavy throughout the early morning, accompanied by thunder, lightning, and electrical discharges, further complicating the weather conditions. Multiple neighborhoods in Manta faced power outages due to the severe weather, and roads were left covered with mud, making mobility difficult for residents. Such incidents highlight the vulnerability of urban areas to extreme weather conditions, especially with the forecasted impact of the El NiΓ±o phenomenon possibly intensifying the rainfall.

The flooding not only damaged infrastructure but also affected the daily lives of the residents, as some homes saw water intrusion, and many streets became impassable. The ongoing efforts by local authorities to manage the aftermath of the floods indicate a pressing need for improved drainage systems and emergency preparedness in light of the increasing frequency of such weather disturbances. The situation underscores the broader implications of climate change and its impact on urban centers in Ecuador, urging authorities to consider long-term solutions for disaster resilience.

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