29 Mar 2023 | 09:21 AM UTC
Ecuador: Disruptions following landslide ongoing in parts of Alausi Canton as of early March 29 /update 1
Disruptions following landslide ongoing in Alausi Canton, Ecuador, as of March 29. Multiple casualties reported; rescue operations ongoing.
Event
Disruptions are ongoing following a landslide in Alausi Canton as of early March 29. The landslide occurred in Pueblo Viejo, Alausi Canton, in Chimborazolate Province, late March 26, following heavy rainfall. Several homes have been buried, and many people are missing or trapped in the debris. As of early March 29, authorities have reported 11 fatalities; 23 others have been injured, and 67 remain missing. The landslide damaged 163 homes affecting around 500 people. Around 600 other homes in the area have been evacuated due to the risk of further landslides. Rescue operations are ongoing but are hampered by power outages in the area and the risk of additional landslides. Reports indicate that parts of the Pan-American Highway have been affected while the Cuenca-Riobamba road is closed.
The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) has issued rainfall and thunderstorms across Ecuador through early March 29. Further downpours are likely over the country during the remainder of the South American Monsoon season through the end of April.
Further stained heavy rainfall could result in flooding and additional landslides. Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
