Pope Francis said “close” to the people of Ecuador this Sunday, after the earthquake that shook the country and also left at least 15 dead and caused major property damage in neighboring Peru.
“Dear brothers and sisters, yesterday (Saturday) an earthquake in Ecuador caused many injuries and enormous damage. I feel close to the Ecuadorian people and I assure you of my prayers for the dead and all those who suffer,” said the pope , speaking from the Apostolic Palace after the Sunday Angelus Prayer.
The earthquake, which struck the border region between Ecuador and Peru, killed 15 in the former country.
Peru also confirmed the death of a four-year-old girl on its territory.
The magnitude 6.5 earthquake struck Saturday afternoon, with its epicenter in Ecuador but also felt in the northern Peruvian region of Tumbes.
According to the Ecuadorian authorities, 381 people were injured in the earthquake, many of whom were evacuated by plane with the support of the army.
Official data from Ecuador accounts for 90 houses affected, 44 destroyed, half a hundred units of education affected, as well as 17 public properties, 20 private properties, 31 health centers and one private property destroyed, as well as a bridge.
Collapsing facades, breaking glass and cracks in walls were also reported.
Source: DN
