19 Mar 2023 | 07:19 PM UTC
Ecuador: Authorities continuing response to aftermath of strong earthquake as of March 19 /update 3
Ecuadoran authorities continuing response in aftermath of magnitude-6.7 earthquake as of March 19.
Event
As of March 19, emergency crews in Ecuador are continuing their response in the aftermath of a strong magnitude 6.7 earthquake that occurred in Guayas Province during the early afternoon of March 18. The nation's Risk Management Agency has deployed search and rescue teams throughout affected areas. At least 11 of Ecuador's 24 provinces - primarily in southern and central parts of the country - have reported varying degrees of impact from the earthquake, with Guayas and El Oro provinces being the worst hit.
At least 14 people were killed and about 450 injured in the temblor; casualty figures could rise as search and rescue operations continue. The earthquake destroyed 84 residential buildings and 5 bridges; over 300 other structures were damaged. Santa Rosa International Airport (ETR) sustained minor damage from the earthquake; authorities have as yet released no official statement as to whether the facility is operating normally.
Damage assessments are ongoing; however, the government's response has been hampered in some areas by downed transmission lines, resulting in communications disruptions and power outages. It could take several days until authorities can complete damage assessments, especially in remote areas. Moderate to strong aftershocks are likely over the coming days.
The earthquake's epicenter was about 7 km (4 miles) north-northeast of Balao and about 78 km (48 miles) south of Guayaquil. The temblor struck at a depth of about 66 km (41 miles). Very strong-to-severe shaking was reported in locations near the epicenter, with moderate shaking experienced in more distant locations.
Officials may temporarily shut down transportation infrastructure in the tremor zone to check for damage. Disruptions could occur during such shutdowns, but service will likely resume quickly if no damage is found.
Advice
Out of an abundance of caution, consider vacating multistory buildings where shaking occurred until authorities confirm their structural integrity. Monitor and plan for aftershocks.
Charge mobile and other electrical devices in advance and ensure backup batteries are available where needed. Plan for possible road travel delays due to malfunctioning or inoperative traffic lights in affected areas; exercise caution when driving in the impacted areas, especially during hours of darkness. Verify that security systems are working during power outages. Ensure that generators are functional and refuel equipment where necessary. Identify business-critical functions that require a power supply.
