Water deficit puts Ecuador on “red alert”
A red alert has been issued in various parts of Ecuador due to a severe drought causing widespread power cuts and forest fires. The National Emergency Operations Committee (COE) declared the red alert based on water deficit, forest fires, and food security concerns. The government is taking measures to mitigate the crisis and ensure water supply across the affected regions.
Ecuador is experiencing its worst drought in over six decades, leading to reduced water availability for hydroelectric plants and causing energy shortages. The recent power cuts are part of efforts to manage the energy crisis, with strategic locations exempt from outages. The blackouts have resulted in significant economic losses but are seen as necessary to address the ongoing challenges.