Some coastal buildings destroyed, more are on the ‘precipice’ after strong wave action

Several structures were destroyed and more were closer to destruction following strong wave and tidal activity along Ecuador’s coast Sunday through Tuesday. Most of the damage occurred in Manabí and Esmeraldas Provinces.

A beach in Manabí damaged by waves.

According to reports from several cantons, at least seven structures, mostly small restaurants and fish cleaning facilities, were destroyed by the wave action. In addition, local and national risk management officials are looking at areas where new inlets have been formed behind beaches and buildings due to the high tides.

Bulldozers and tractors have been called to several communities to reinforce beaches before the next high-wave activity returns in two weeks. Hundreds of truck-loads of rocks have been ordered in an effort to protect houses and businesses in several areas.

Ecuador’s tourism ministry said that the high wave action may have contributed to several drowning deaths during the long Carnival weekend. The ministry had warned of dangerous currents and rip tides due to strong wave action.