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Press Releases & Updates

19 APR 2016

Ecuador quake causes devastating damage Oxfam rushing life-saving aid to affected areas

A devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Ecuador on 16 April, 2016, causing severe damage. This is the strongest earthquake that has hit Ecuador in 40 years. Oxfam has immediately deployed a team to the country, and is now assessing the humanitarian needs and preparing supplies to provide survivors with shelter, clean water, sanitation and hygiene.

The epicentre of the earthquake was centred near the city of Muisne. Over 400 people have been killed and over 2,700 injured. The number of casualties is expected to rise. Thousands of houses and buildings have also been damaged. Electricity access is limited and communications are difficult in some areas. The government has declared a state of emergency in the affected areas. 

A team of Oxfam’s assessment experts have landed in the country and are evaluating the situation. Our team is also working with our partners and the government to offer aid in the most appropriate and effective way to people who are affected most. The first phase of response will focus on clean water, sanitation and hygiene. It is expected that the first batch of relief aid will land this Thursday (21 April) in Ecuador. 

Oxfam has been working in Ecuador since the 1980s. We are now raising funds to respond to those affected by the devastating earthquake in the country. Oxfam Hong Kong is backing this appeal to support disaster relief work that will be carried out there.

 

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About Oxfam

Oxfam is a worldwide development organisation that mobilises the power of people against poverty.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Maggie Chum (Communications Officer)

Telephone: + 852 3120 5222 / + 852 6010 9961

Email: maggie.chum@oxfam.org.hk