World Vision responding to Ecuador quake

Monday, April 18, 2016

World Vision is responding to a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake in Ecuador that has killed more than 230 people, with reports of rescuers digging in the rubble with their bare hands to find survivors.

World Vision has staff on the ground in Ecuador.

José Luis Ochoa, National Director from World Vision Ecuador, said: "This is the worst earthquake to strike Ecuador since 1987, when 1,000 people were killed. It was a truly terrifying event felt across the country.”

Information is slow coming through due to damaged telecoms infrastructure but early reports put the death toll at more than 230, with hundreds injured and a large percentage of households in the immediate quake zone affected. There have been at least 170 aftershocks so far.

World Vision has deployed emergency response staff and will be working closely with the government to assist with aid distributions. The government has declared an emergency, with the provinces of Esmeraldas, Los Rios, Manabi, Santa Elena, Guayas and Santo Domingo especially affected. The 7.8 quake was so large that tremors were also felt in Colombia and Peru.

Mr Ochoa said World Vision staff would establish shelters to aid affected families. Staff was also working with local health centres. “In situations like this we are especially concerned about children and ensuring their needs are met," he said.

For interviews with World Vision staff in Ecuador or Australia:
Contact: Stuart Rintoul: +61 (0) 407 241 492

Media Releases

Back to all Results