Rescue Efforts Underway as Earthquake Claims 15 Lives in Ecuador and Peru
A 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck off the Pacific coast of Ecuador and northern Peru on March 18, leaving at least 15 people dead and many more injured. Read on for the latest news and updates on the relief efforts.
On Saturday, March 18, a powerful 6.8 magnitude earthquake struck off the Pacific coast, approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Guayaquil, Ecuador’s second-largest city. The earthquake was also felt throughout northern Peru, causing widespread panic among residents.
The US Geological Survey reported that the earthquake’s epicenter was located off the coast of Ecuador, and the tremors caused significant damage to buildings and infrastructure in several areas. According to reports, at least 15 people have died as a result of the earthquake, with 14 fatalities reported in Ecuador and one in Peru.
Rescue teams have been working tirelessly to search for survivors trapped in the rubble of collapsed buildings. Local officials in southern Ecuador reported that at least 126 people were injured in the quake, and many more are believed to be missing.
Ecuador’s President, Guillermo Lasso, expressed his concern over the situation and assured the public that the government is working to provide assistance to those affected by the earthquake. “The earthquake has created an atmosphere of panic among the people,” he said.
The impact of the earthquake was felt across a wide area, from the northern border of Ecuador to the central Pacific coast, including all of Peru. Prime Minister Alberto Otarola confirmed that a 4-year-old girl died of head injuries in the Tumbes region, which borders Ecuador.
Eyewitness accounts from the scene describe scenes of chaos and confusion as people fled from their homes and workplaces in search of safety. “I heard my neighbors shouting and making a lot of noise, so I came out of my house and saved my life,” said photographer Cruz.
As rescue efforts continue, the Ecuadorian government has urged citizens to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of emergency services. The earthquake serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by natural disasters and the need for communities to work together to prepare and respond to such events.
Strong Earthquake in Ecuador and Northern Peru Leaves at Least 15 Dead
The earthquake has also raised concerns about the potential for further damage to the region’s infrastructure and economy, with reports indicating that several major roads and bridges have been damaged. The Ecuadorian government has announced that it will provide emergency funding to support recovery efforts in the affected areas.
Meanwhile, the Peruvian government has also expressed its solidarity with Ecuador, with President Pedro Castillo offering condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the earthquake. “We are with you in this difficult time,” he said.
International organizations and aid agencies have also pledged support for the relief effort, with the United Nations and the Red Cross among those offering assistance. The UN’s Emergency Relief Coordinator, Martin Griffiths, expressed his condolences to the families of those affected and pledged the organization’s support to the governments of Ecuador and Peru.
The earthquake is the latest in a series of natural disasters to strike the region, including volcanic eruptions and flooding. The Ecuadorian government has stressed the need for continued investment in disaster preparedness and risk reduction measures, in order to protect communities and minimize the impact of future disasters.
As the rescue and recovery efforts continue, the thoughts and prayers of people around the world are with those affected by the earthquake in Ecuador and Peru. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of solidarity and support in times of crisis, and the need for continued efforts to build resilience and prepare for the unexpected.
Tags:- Earthquake, Ecuador, Peru, Natural disaster, Relief effort, Emergency response, Humanitarian aid, Disaster preparedness, Risk reduction, Resilience,
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