18 Mar 2023 | 09:16 PM UTC
Ecuador: Magnitude 6.7 earthquake causes structural damage in four provinces, leaves at least four fatalities March 18 /update 2
Ecuadoran authorities report damage in four provinces, four fatalities following strong earthquake March 18. Search, rescue efforts ongoing.
Event
Authorities in Ecuador are continuing their response in the aftermath of a strong magnitude 6.7 earthquake that occurred in Guayas Province at about 12:13 ECT March 18. The nation's Risk Management Agency has deployed search and rescue teams throughout areas impacted by the earthquake, with structural damage primarily occurring in Azuay, El Oro, Guayas, and Chimborazo provinces. Several buildings have reportedly collapsed, and at least four persons died in the temblor - one in Cuenca in Azuay Province, and at least three others in Machala in El Oro Province. Casualty figures could rise as search and rescue operations continue. 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 hours, or even 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.
