In January and February 2026, Quito faced a dramatic increase in rainfall, receiving 775 millimeters more than the previous year, marking the wettest period in over two decades. The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (Inamhi) reported that historic rainfall levels were observed in various areas, including Quito, with January 22 being noted as the rainiest day in the capital's history, registering 85.5 millimeters of water.

In response to this record rainfall, Quito's mayor, Pabel Muñoz, highlighted the city's success in managing the associated emergencies. Despite the surge in rainfall and its potential dangers, including landslides and fallen trees which led to road closures and displacement of families, the city managed to decrease the number of reported flooding incidents by 16%. This significant achievement suggests effective preemptive measures and disaster management capacity in the face of extreme weather events.

Overall, the contrasting statistics of increased rainfall against a decline in flooding reports indicate a cautious optimism regarding Quito's resilience and emergency response strategies. Mayor Muñoz's remarks underscore the importance of local governance in effectively mitigating the impacts of climate change, revealing a potential model for other regions facing similar challenges as urbanization increases and extreme weather becomes more prevalent.