More than 500 individuals were forced to evacuate their residences in northern Ecuador on Sunday as a result of severe flooding caused by relentless heavy rains, revealed President Guillermo Lasso.
Fortunately, no fatalities or missing persons have been reported thus far, affirmed President Lasso. Distressing images released by the Ministry of Defense showcased numerous residents taking refuge on rooftops and balconies in an effort to shield themselves from the surging waters.
The downpour persisted for an uninterrupted period of 12 hours, leading to the overflow of six rivers, explained President Lasso. He took to Twitter, emphasizing the primary focus on preserving lives and urging protective measures.
“The priority is to save their lives, let’s protect them! We have already rescued 500 people and the work continues,” President Lasso expressed.
According to the Risk Management Secretariat, approximately 500 individuals were evacuated by boat, while an additional 30 were airlifted via helicopter. The province of Esmeraldas, which shares a border with Colombia, bore the brunt of the floods, impacting around 11,750 people and resulting in the loss of 16 homes.
In response to the damages incurred, classes were suspended in several towns where schools suffered structural harm.
Furthermore, five healthcare facilities were also affected.
Tragically, Ecuador has already witnessed significant devastation due to natural disasters this year. Between January and May, over 99,000 people have been affected, and the death toll has reached 36 across the country.
In a similar incident back in March, heavy rains triggered a landslide in the Andean town of Alausi, claiming approximately 60 lives and leaving 13 individuals missing. The ongoing efforts of rescuers continue as they strive to recover the bodies of those still unaccounted for in that previous calamity.