Key takeaways:
- At least 480 people have died as a result of the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that shook the region around Ecuador’s second-largest city, Guayaquil.
- Homes and buildings have been damaged in the quake, and the Ecuadorian government has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas.
- The cause of the earthquake is still unknown, but experts believe it was likely caused by a shift in the earth’s tectonic plates.
On Saturday, a powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake shook the region around Ecuador’s second-largest city, Guayaquil, causing widespread destruction and panic. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake was centered about 50 miles south of Guayaquil, which anchors a metro area of over 3 million people.
The earthquake has resulted in the death of at least 480 people, with one reported death in the Andean community of Cuenca. The Risk Management Secretariat, Ecuador’s emergency response agency, has reported that homes and buildings have been damaged in the quake.
Solange Coyago, a resident of Guayaquil, was in her apartment when the quake began. She described the windows shaking and the lights moving quickly. After the earthquake stopped, she said she experienced a panic attack.
The Ecuadorian government has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas and has requested international assistance. Rescue teams are currently searching for survivors and assessing the damage caused by the quake. The government has also set up shelters for those affected by the disaster.
The cause of the earthquake is still unknown, but experts believe it was likely caused by a shift in the earth’s tectonic plates. The Ecuadorian government is continuing to monitor the situation and is urging citizens to remain vigilant.
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