Intense rain disrupts the day in downtown Guayaquil: tree collapses on Chile Street
Intense rain in Guayaquil has caused significant disruptions, including a tree collapse that blocked traffic on Chile Street.
On Monday, February 23, intensive rainfall hit several areas of Guayaquil, particularly affecting the downtown region. Starting at approximately 4:30 PM, this heavy precipitation was accompanied by thunderstorms, prompting many residents to use umbrellas or seek shelter. The intense rainfall led to noticeable water accumulation across various neighborhoods, negatively impacting traffic and safety in the area.
The ECU911 reported significant vehicular congestion on avenues, including Quito, with flooding observed near the George Capwell Stadium. One of the most pressing incidents involved a large tree that collapsed on Chile Street, specifically at the intersection of Chile and Sucre, effectively blocking multiple lanes of traffic. This incident created additional complications for drivers heading south, as traffic authorities were forced to redirect vehicles to the available lanes.
In light of the dangerous conditions, local authorities urged drivers to exercise caution while navigating the streets to prevent accidents. The situation underscores the challenges that heavy rainfall poses for urban areas, particularly in terms of infrastructure and public safety, prompting calls for better drainage systems to mitigate flooding in the future.