The heavy rains in Ecuador have claimed the lives of 19 people and affected 95,904 individuals. Since the beginning of the year, the country has been hit by a strong winter weather event, reported the National Risk Management Office (SNGRE). According to the latest data, as of March 12, there were "1,593 unregistered cases" due to heavy rains in 23 out of 24 provinces of the country, affecting 187 cantons and 597 parishes.
The most common incidents reported include flooding, structural damage, soil erosion, windstorms, and landslides, clarified SNGRE.
"The provinces with the highest number of affected individuals are Manabí with 60,652 affected persons and 176 incidents, followed by Guayas with 15,166 affected persons and 204 incidents," they detailed.
Overall, the country has registered 91 injured, 9,872 affected individuals, 120 destroyed structures, and 26,828 damaged houses, as well as the destruction of 25 private properties, 10 bridges, and 491 educational institutions that have suffered damage.
Additionally, the rains have destroyed 23 community objects, damaged 43.08 km of roads, and led to the loss of 6,566.99 hectares of crops, as well as the death of 49,672 animals.
SNGRE added that currently 23 rivers have overflowed from their banks, and in 26 other areas there is a tendency for increased water levels. During this rainy period, SNGRE is ensuring the operation of 29 temporary shelters to provide humanitarian aid to the affected population.
According to the meteorological warning issued by the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (Inamhi), heavy rains with high intensity will continue in the country until March 17. Since February 24, a regional state of emergency has been declared for 60 days across eight provinces, primarily affected by the winter, with the aim of mobilizing additional resources and personnel to deal with the aftermath of the rains.
