A 6.3-magnitude earthquake hit the port city of Esmeraldas, Ecuador, injuring at least 20. Significant building damage occurred, leading to power outages. Emergency services and the government are coordinating responses, while no tsunami risk is reported.
On Friday, a shallow earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale rattled the Ecuadorian port city of Esmeraldas, resulting in at least 20 injuries and significant damage to numerous buildings. Reports indicate the tremor caused widespread destruction, with power outages affecting much of the city. The earthquake was felt far beyond Esmeraldas, with its effects reaching the capital, Quito.
Emergency services reported that the 20 individuals injured had suffered various wounds, including head injuries. Eyewitnesses described harrowing scenes as buildings crumbled around them. Former presidential candidate Yaku Perez recounted the experience, noting how the shaking felt “very strong” and seemed to last longer than it did.
Areas of Esmeraldas were littered with debris, including collapsed walls and fallen facades. A total of 60 homes and a local health center were reported to be damaged, along with a military structure that partially collapsed. Damage to roads and a bridge further complicated the situation for responders.
The national oil company, Petroecuador, announced it had halted operations at the Esmeraldas refinery following the quake. This facility is crucial, producing approximately 111,000 barrels of oil daily, while the nearby Transecuadorian Pipeline System transports 360,000 barrels each day.
Daniel Noboa, Ecuador’s recently re-elected president, stated he was deploying ministers to coordinate shelter construction and humanitarian assistance for those affected by the shake. He reassured citizens on social media, saying, “The government is with you, and that’s how it will be going forward.”
The earthquake occurred around 7:00 a.m. local time, striking off the Ecuadorian coast at a depth of approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles). Fortunately, authorities affirmed there is no tsunami threat linked to this seismic activity. Ecuador, situated along a tectonically active region, sees frequent earthquakes due to the motion between the Nazca and South American plates.
As a reminder of past seismic tragedies, just last week, Ecuador commemorated the 2016 earthquake that devastated Manabi and Esmeraldas, leaving 673 people dead and around 6,300 injured. Despite the current quake’s intensity, reports have indicated no injuries across the border in Colombia.
In summary, the 6.3-magnitude earthquake has caused notable injuries and extensive damage in Esmeraldas, prompting a swift response from national authorities and emergency services. With operations halted at key oil facilities and rebuilding efforts underway, Ecuador remains on alert as it navigates the aftermath of this powerful quake. Past seismic events loom large in the country’s history, reminding all of the constant threat presented by its geological landscape.
Original Source: 24newshd.tv
