Ecuador: 6.2-magnitude earthquake strikes Guayaquil Nov. 17

Event

An earthquake with a magnitude of 6.2 on the Richter scale struck the city of Guayaquil (Guayas province) on Friday morning, November 17. The earthquake hit at 08:40 (local time), 20 minutes ahead of a planned earthquake preparedness drill. According to Ecuador’s Geophysical Institute (Instituto Geofísico), the epicenter was located approximately 25 km (15 mi) south-southwest of the city.

At this early stage it is unclear if the earthquake resulted in any damage or casualties. There are, however, reports of telecommunications disruptions. Aftershocks are to be anticipated.

Advice

In the event of an earthquake, take shelter under a table or crouched in a corner (away from exterior walls) if indoors and protect your head with your arms. If outdoors, move away from buildings and other tall structures; if driving, pull over as soon as it is safe to do so, away from tall structures. If caught under debris following an earthquake, keep all movements to a minimum and cover your mouth to avoid inhaling dust.

After a major earthquake, check buildings for damage, including downed power lines or damaged gas lines, and evacuate until the building is declared safe. Only use your telephone in case of urgency so as to leave communication lines open for emergency services.