Ecuador sends 35 rescuers and experts to Colombia after 7.4 magnitude earthquake

Ecuador is dispatching a specialized team of 35 rescuers, approximately five tons of equipment, and a group of engineers to Colombia to aid in the aftermath of a powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake. The contingent, drawn from the Guayaquil Fire Department, is equipped for seven days of autonomous operation.

This deployment is a direct response to requests from the Colombian government, channeled through Ecuador's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In addition to the search and rescue personnel, the team includes specialists in structural analysis, seismic engineering, and geotechnical engineering. Their role will be crucial in assessing damage and determining the habitability of buildings in designated zones.

Roberto Luque, Ecuador's Minister of Infrastructure and Technology and president of the National Emergency Operations Committee (COE), expressed Ecuador's solidarity with Colombia and Venezuela, both affected by recent seismic events. He conveyed condolences for the human and material losses incurred.

Addressing public concerns, Luque urged Ecuadorians to remain calm. He clarified that the sequence of earthquakes, first in Venezuela and then in Colombia, does not signal an increased risk of a major earthquake in Ecuador. "The sequence of tremors registered first in Venezuela and later in Colombia does not mean that, as a consequence of these events, an earthquake is foreseen in Ecuador," he stated during a press conference.

Despite reassuring the public, Luque reminded citizens that Ecuador faces permanent seismic risk. He emphasized the importance of reinforcing prevention and preparedness measures and cautioned against spreading unverified information. Meanwhile, Ecuador's National Secretariat for Risk Management has established collection centers in Pichincha and Guayas provinces to receive donations for affected families in Colombia, including items for temporary shelter, water, and hygiene products.

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I want to convey tranquility to the citizens. The sequence of tremors registered first in Venezuela and later in Colombia does not mean that, as a consequence of these events, an earthquake is foreseen in Ecuador.