10 Apr 2023 | 10:19 AM UTC
Ecuador: Authorities issue evacuation orders for Alausi Canton, Ecuador due to the risk of landslides April 9
Authorities issue evacuation orders for Alausi Canton, Ecuador due to the risk of landslides. Severe weather forecast through April 13.
Event
Authorities have issued evacuation orders for parts of Alausi Canton, Ecuador, due to the risk of landslides. Evacuation orders are in place for parts of Huigra Parish, including Namza Chico, Pasan, Puente Chanchan, Quebrada La Ninfa, and Unidad Educativa Eloy Alfaro, affecting around 2,400 people.
A previous landslide in Pueblo Viejo, Alausi Canton, in Chimborazolate Province, late March 26, triggered by heavy rainfall, resulted in at least 35 fatalities, 43 others injured, and 53 others still missing. Around 1,034 people are homeless, with 57 homes destroyed and 163 other homes damaged.
The National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMHI) has issued a weather warning for rainfall and thunderstorms across most of the country through April 13. The heaviest rainfall of up to 8 cm (3 inches) is likely over the western and central parts of the country where red warnings are in place. 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.
