Ecuador Flood Leaves 9 Dead, Governor Missing Amidst Ongoing Rescue Efforts

A catastrophic flood in Cantzama, Ecuador, on July 4, 2026, has left a grim toll, with authorities reporting nine fatalities and 38 individuals injured. The disaster struck the province of Zamora Chinchipe, which has been under a state of emergency since Saturday.

The search for the missing continues, with preliminary reports indicating 10 people are unaccounted for. Among them is Governor Ivonne Panchi, who was reportedly swept away by the floodwaters while engaged in humanitarian aid efforts. "We are still searching for the governor, who is missing. She was working. As a government, we are present," stated Nataly Morillo, the Minister of Government.

Rescue teams, including firefighters from Loja and Zamora Chinchipe, have resumed their efforts, bolstered by support from teams arriving from Cuenca, Riobamba, and Puyo. The flood has displaced approximately 300 people from 74 affected families, with 48 families, or about 200 people, classified as having lost their homes. A temporary shelter has been established at the Daniel Martínez Ordóñez Educational Unit, providing essential services to those displaced.

The material damage is extensive, with 50 homes impacted, a bridge destroyed, and 23 private properties damaged. Critical infrastructure has also suffered, including two destroyed transformers, and the water supply in the Cantzama and Santa Isabel neighborhoods is operating at only 80% capacity. Key transport routes, the Loja–Zamora (E50) and Zamora–Yantzaza–Chuchumbletza (E45) highways, remain partially open, with authorities advising caution and adherence to designated routes.

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We are still searching for the governor, who is missing. She was working. As a government, we are present.