Intense rains in Ecuador from February 20 to 23 have impacted nearly 1,600 people across several provinces, prompting a national emergency alert.
From February 20 to 23, 2023, intense rainfall in Ecuador has affected approximately 1,590 individuals, with the national Secretariat for Risk Management reporting multiple adverse events such as landslides and water accumulation disrupting daily life. The affected individuals include five people displaced due to losses from the rains, although no fatalities were reported, showcasing the resilience of local communities in facing natural disasters.
The rainfall events have triggered the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) to declare a red alert in six provinces, including Carchi, Esmeraldas, Guayas, Loja, Los RÃos, and Pichincha. This proactive measure highlights the government's urgent response to potential flooding and landslides, with local authorities being urged to undertake dredging operations on water bodies in their jurisdictions to prevent river overflows.
Authorities are also focusing on strengthening preparedness measures to mitigate further risks associated with the ongoing weather conditions. The collaboration between the national government and decentralized provincial bodies is key in addressing the challenges posed by severe weather, ensuring safety and disaster management efforts are effectively implemented in the affected areas.
