'The water reaches us up to our shoulders': heavy rains affect 70% of the canton Milagro and leave 20,000 people affected
Severe rains have led to flooding in Milagro, Ecuador, affecting over 20,000 residents and disrupting daily life and emergency services.
Heavy rainfall in Milagro, Ecuador, has resulted in significant flooding, impacting around 70% of the canton and displacing approximately 20,000 residents. Streets have turned into rivers, with residents struggling to navigate the inundated areas while emergency services are severely hampered. The flooding has resulted in damaged properties, especially vehicles, which were unable to traverse the flooded roads.
In the San Miguel neighborhood, notably known as '100 camas', conditions have deteriorated further. Valeria Montoya and her children faced a perilous journey to the local hospital for emergency services, illustrating the human toll of the disaster. Reports from residents indicate that the water levels have risen to shoulder height in some areas, complicating rescue and aid efforts significantly. Valeria's account highlights the dire situation and the community's reliance on one another for support in these challenging circumstances.
This emergency not only raises immediate concerns regarding safety and health for those affected but also presses local authorities to respond effectively to the crisis. With substantial portions of Milagro submerged, the storm's long-term implications for infrastructure, public health, and community cohesion will need to be addressed as recovery efforts begin.