A powerful earthquake struck northwest Ecuador near the Colombian border, causing widespread damage.
The European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre reported a 6.3 magnitude quake at 6:45 am local time.
The quake’s epicenter was about 30 kilometers underground in Esmeraldas province, along the Pacific coast.
Assessing the Damage
At least 60 homes were damaged or destroyed, and 20 people were injured, mostly with minor bruises and head wounds.
The quake was felt across 10 provinces, including the capital Quito.
In Esmeraldas city, several areas lost power, and the national oil company, Petroecuador, temporarily stopped operations at its refinery and main crude oil pipeline as a precaution.
Response and Relief Efforts
Ecuador’s President, Daniel Noboa, announced on social media that the government is setting up shelters and providing humanitarian aid to those affected.
The National Risk Management Secretariat is assessing the damage and coordinating relief efforts.
The president assured citizens that the government is committed to supporting them during this difficult time.
The quake highlights the region’s vulnerability to seismic activity.
Ecuador is located near the boundary between the Nazca and South American tectonic plates, making it prone to earthquakes.
As rescue efforts continue, the focus remains on providing aid and support to those affected by the disaster.