A very strong magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck near the coast of Ecuador on April 25, 2025, at approximately 11:44 AM local time. The epicenter was located 20 kilometers northeast of Esmeraldas, a city with a population of 218,700, at coordinates (1.1049, -79.5345) with a depth of 35 kilometers 2.
Immediate Impact and Damage Assessment
The earthquake, which is considered very strong, might have caused light to moderate damage in the affected areas. Moderate shaking was reported in Esmeraldas, where residents experienced significant tremors 2. The predominant vulnerable building types in the region are mud wall and adobe block construction, which are more susceptible to damage during seismic events 1.
Emergency Response and Humanitarian Challenges
Emergency response efforts are underway to address the immediate needs of the affected population. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) has been actively involved in providing relief, including distributing over one million liters of water and calling for increased humanitarian assistance 5. A large-capacity Emergency Response Unit (ERU) purification system, mobilized by the Honduran and other Red Cross partners, has arrived in Ecuador to produce safe drinking water for more than 15,000 people per day in the most affected communities in Esmeraldas 5.
Infrastructure Damage and Secondary Hazards
The earthquake has also caused severe damage to infrastructure, including the collapse of 22 electricity sub-stations and other critical facilities. This damage poses significant challenges for the affected communities, particularly in rural areas where access to basic services is already limited 5. Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides and flooding, which further complicate the response efforts 1.
Ongoing Humanitarian Efforts
The IFRC has launched an Emergency Appeal for 4.5 million Swiss francs to support over 176,000 people affected by the earthquake and ongoing humanitarian crises in Ecuador. Despite this appeal, only 11% of the funds have been raised, highlighting the need for increased international support to meet growing humanitarian needs 5. Red Cross volunteers have been providing medical care, psychosocial support, and distributing food, cooking kits, essential hygiene items, and tools to clean homes and properties damaged by the earthquake 5.
Future Concerns and Coordination
The response to the earthquake and ongoing humanitarian crises requires a sustained and coordinated effort. The IFRC is working closely with the Ecuadorian Red Cross, sister Red Cross Societies, and partners to ensure no one is left behind. However, increased international support is critical to help communities recover with dignity and resilience 5.