In Quito, Ecuador, the director of Risk Management reported that 321 neighborhoods are at high risk for landslides and flooding due to recent heavy rains and significant landslides in the area.
On February 27th, heavy rain and hail hit the residents of Quito, Ecuador, leading to multiple incidents of flooding in the northern part of the city. Notably, a large landslide occurred on the old road to Nayón, prompting concerns over the vulnerability of local neighborhoods to further climatic events. Authorities have identified 321 neighborhoods showing high susceptibility to mass movements and floods, emphasizing the urgent need for preventive measures and support for those communities.
In response to these threats, the Municipality of Quito has activated its Climate Events Plan for the 2025-2026 rainy season, which aims to implement strategies to mitigate risks associated with heavy rainfall and flooding. The director of metropolitan Risk Management, Patricia Carrillo, who has over 21 years of experience in disaster risk management, outlined the actions being taken to protect at-risk neighborhoods. Her expertise stems from her previous role as the Undersecretary of Risk Reduction at the National Secretariat for Risk Management, where she collaborated with various national and international NGOs as well as public administration sectors.
The situation highlights the broader implications of climate change on urban areas, particularly in places like Quito that are prone to extreme weather events. As this rainy season progresses, local authorities are stressing the importance of community awareness and preparedness, particularly in neighborhoods identified as high-risk zones. Proactive measures are essential to safeguard the population and minimize potential damage from future climatic events.
