New earthquake in Ecuador: Azuay province affected by tremor on July 18, 2026

A magnitude 3.8 earthquake shook the Azuay province in Ecuador on Saturday morning, July 18, 2026. The seismic event's epicenter was located near Cuenca, a city in the southern Andean highlands.

The Geophysical Institute of the National Polytechnic School reported the tremor occurred at 10:26 a.m. local time. The earthquake had a depth of 89 kilometers and its epicenter was situated 5.29 kilometers from Cuenca. As of this report, officials have not announced any affected individuals or material damages.

Ecuador frequently experiences seismic activity due to its location within the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone known for its high concentration of tectonic plate boundaries. This geological characteristic makes earthquakes a natural part of the country's dynamic landscape.

Authorities recommend remaining calm during seismic events and following preventative measures to reduce risks. In open spaces, it is advisable to stay clear of power lines and structures that could collapse. After a tremor, it is important to check the condition of buildings and stay informed through official channels.