Ecuador’s National Emergency Operations Committee, led by Interior Minister Juan Zapata, raised the country’s El Niño alert from yellow to orange after evaluating oceanic and atmospheric conditions.
These conditions suggest a high chance of El Niño happening in the year’s last quarter, aligning with the rainy season.
Meanwhile, President Guillermo Lasso is in the U.S. for the UN General Assembly. He tweeted that the new alert level means moving from prevention to preparation.
“We’ve secured $500 million in funding for upcoming plans,” he added.
Out of this sum, $150 million will go toward road emergencies, new machinery, and equipment upkeep.
Furthermore, these funds will also allow for the purchase of 1,200 meters of makeshift bridges. The rest will finance local risk prevention and mitigation efforts.
In the past, El Niño severely affected Ecuador, causing heavy rains and coastal floods in 1982-1983 and 1997-1998.
Background
Ecuador’s proactive approach highlights the importance of readiness for natural disasters.
Preparation is key, especially considering the country’s previous bouts with El Niño in 1982-1983 and 1997-1998.
The lessons learned then serve as a foundation for the new measures.
In addition, securing $500 million in funding is a considerable achievement. It shows not just national but also international cooperation.
With this backing, Ecuador can now better invest in the required infrastructure and technology.
Interestingly, the funding allocation reveals the government’s priorities. A significant chunk, $150 million, focuses on road emergencies and essential machinery.
This points to an effort to maintain key transport links even during severe weather.
Also, the rest of the funds aim at local projects, which is crucial. Local governments often have the most immediate understanding of their specific vulnerabilities.
Hence, these funds can target the most urgent needs effectively.