Ecuador: Response operation ongoing following landslide in Banos Canton, Tungurahua Province, as of early June 17

Response operations are ongoing following a landslide in Banos Canton, Tungurahua Province, as of early June 17. The landslide occurred in Rio Verde Parish following heavy rainfall in the region overnight June 15-16. As of late June 16, authorities have reported at least six deaths and 19 others injured due to the landslide. The E30 highway between Banos and Puyo is closed due to debris. Power outages and water supply has been disrupted in Rio Verde. Schools in the region have switched to remote learning June 17 due to the impacts of the adverse weather in the region. Further isolated showers are forecast over Tungurahua Province June 17.

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 damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.