Ecuador earthquake: death toll rises to 233
- 8 years ago
The death toll from the earthquake in Ecuador has risen to 233, President Rafael Correa has confirmed.
Initial tallies given by the government suggested around 600 people were injured. However, the number was expected to rise.
The magnitude 7.8 ‘quake was felt around the nation when it struck off the Pacific Coast late on Saturday.
Ecuador’s biggest earthquake in decades has ravaged coastal populations leaving an unknown number of people trapped in the rubble.
Panic spread though the Andean nation, which is home to a population of some 16 million people. Tremors were felt in the highland capital, while buildings collapsed and roads were ruined across several western towns.
In the hours after the ‘quake hit, six provinces declared a state of emergency.
Rescue operations are ongoing.
Initial tallies given by the government suggested around 600 people were injured. However, the number was expected to rise.
The magnitude 7.8 ‘quake was felt around the nation when it struck off the Pacific Coast late on Saturday.
Ecuador’s biggest earthquake in decades has ravaged coastal populations leaving an unknown number of people trapped in the rubble.
Panic spread though the Andean nation, which is home to a population of some 16 million people. Tremors were felt in the highland capital, while buildings collapsed and roads were ruined across several western towns.
In the hours after the ‘quake hit, six provinces declared a state of emergency.
Rescue operations are ongoing.