Ecuador Declares National Emergency Due to Wildfires and Drought

The emergency declaration allows for increased resources to combat severe wildfires and manage critical water shortages.

Ecuador has declared a 60-day national emergency in response to severe drought and record wildfires affecting the country.
Over 10,000 hectares have been burned in the southern provinces of Azuay and Loja, with 17 active fires reported.
The drought has led to extensive electricity rationing, with power cuts extended to 14 hours daily due to low water levels in hydroelectric dams.
Authorities have mobilized additional resources, including eight firefighting helicopters, to address the crisis.
Suspected arson is being investigated as a possible cause of some fires, with several suspects identified.