International Desk: At least 14 people were killed in a strong earthquake in the North American country of Ecuador. More than 120 people were injured.
The earthquake hit the town of Balao in the Guayas province of Ecuador’s coastal region on Saturday, March 18, at noon local time. About 3 million people live in the city. BBC news.
The southern province of El Oro was reportedly the worst hit. Many people are trapped inside the collapsed houses.
Authorities said 11 people died in El Oro and one in Azua province.
Magali Escandon, a trader in Cuenca, told the AFP news agency, “I went out on the street and saw people getting out of their cars in panic and starting to run.”
The injured are being treated at the hospital. President Guillermo Laso called on Ecuadorians to remain calm. He said that preparations are being made to provide emergency assistance.
