In the last few weeks, heavy rains have caused flooding in the coastal areas of Ecuador and landslides in the highlands. More than three million people are now affected, with over 300,000 displaced from their homes. Given the widespread destruction and loss of land (over half of Ecuador has been affected so far) the Ecuadorian Government has declared a national emergency and is asking for international help.

Damage is comparable to that caused by El Nino, ten years ago, with overflowing rivers, extended flood areas, landslides and thousands of acres of lost crops. Many communities and areas along the coast and in the highlands have been isolated because of flooding and landslides. Economic losses are estimated to be US $200 million.

Plan provides emergency response in affected communities

With seven out of the 11 provinces in which we work directly affected, Plan is already coordinating an emergency response in conjunction with responding local and national organizations. Our primary focus at this point is providing medical assistance, such as pediatricians and medical provisions, and clean, safe shelters for the evacuees — especially for children, who are both physically and emotionally susceptible during disasters.

Immediate emergency response and relief has included:

• Tools (such as pickaxes, shovels and wheelbarrows) for clearing landslides and draining floods
• Mattresses and blankets for shelters
• Safe drinking water at shelters and affected communities
• Basic food and non-perishables at shelters and affected communities
• Medicines for health centres and mobile units
• Insecticide-treated bednets to provide protection against mosquitoes and help prevent malaria
• Hygiene kits to prevent diseases

According to weather forecasts, more rains and electric storms are expected to continue through April, thus further intensifying the damage and endangering the lives of children and their families. Plan is carrying out assessments with our partner agencies on the extent of damage and on people's immediate needs in order to identify how best to assist children and their families.

Information for sponsors

We will contact sponsors directly if we receive any news about individual sponsored children.

Plan Australia has not set up a fundraising appeal to support Plan Ecuador's response to the emergency, as it is expected that sufficient funds will be raised from other sources.

If you are planning a visit or have any particular concerns around this issue, please send a message to our Supporter Service team or call 13 PLAN.