Alert: Update on Electricity and Water Outages Caused by Widespread Drought
Location: Nationwide
Event: As outlined in previous security alerts, the Ecuadorian government continues to implement daily nationwide electrical outages and water rationing across Ecuador due to the presence of a severe drought and energy crisis. Exact schedules vary based on geographic location and are subject to frequent and unexpected changes. Electrical outage and water rationing schedules are available on each service provider’s website. Schedules posted on service provider websites may not be exact and outages may be intermittent and unpredictable.
U.S. citizen travelers and residents in Ecuador should be prepared for electricity outages and water rationing to significantly impact lifestyle and movement nationwide. Media reports indicate that civic groups have announced protests in response to the ongoing outages. U.S. citizens are reminded to avoid large protests and keep in mind that even peaceful protests may turn violent with little warning. Power outages may affect telecommunications, traffic lights, food safety, emergency response, and power in buildings (including elevators) that do not have independent generators. While most large malls, hotels, and hospitals have independent generators, extended generator use is not guaranteed. Gasoline supply in some areas is also limited, and gas stations may fluctuate hours or close altogether. U.S. citizens should exercise caution with food safety to prevent gastrointestinal illness, including purchasing shelf stable foods, purchasing fresh food more frequently, and eating at restaurants with full-time generator power. U.S. citizens who require cold chain medication should arrange a secure plan for access to refrigeration in advance of traveling. U.S. citizens should also exercise caution during electrical outages, especially during periods of darkness, including taking personal safety measures, such as limiting movement on roads without traffic lights and having backup communications plans. We recommend planning for power outages, for instance by stocking up on essential items like food, water, medical supplies, and other personal items, and keeping battery-powered appliances charged and vehicles fueled.
Actions to Take:
- IMPORTANT: On September 16, 2024, the Department of State launched a new version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). To continue receiving alerts, re-enroll at step.state.gov.
- Read previous security alerts at ec.usembassy.gov.
- Monitor announcements from the Ministry of Energy and Mines for information about electrical outages in your area.
- For information about outages in Quito, visit https://www.eeq.com.ec/.
- For information about outages in Guayaquil, visit https://www.cnelep.gob.ec/.
- Check your flight status for airports in Quito and Guayaquil.
- Monitor ECU911 for information on road closures.
- Track official communications from the Government of Ecuador and Ecuador.Travel for additional information and updates.
- Follow credible media sources for accurate information on electrical outages and curfew requirements.
- Consult the Ministry of Tourism’s recommendations for safe travel.
- Review the Travel Advisory and safety and security information for Ecuador at Travel.State.Gov.
- Follow us on Facebook and Twitter and Instagram.
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