Coastal Hazards

Although tsunamis are rare, a large portion of Ecuador is right on the coast, making the region quite vulnerable to the possible hazard that can cause catastrophic damage. Because of the country's continental platform and location along the pacific rim, it is a frequent target for a tsunami. In total, 3 tidal waves classified as tsunamis have struck Ecuador since 1906, and four people have been killed because of the recent incidents. The worst happened in January of 1958, when a surface wave magnitude 7.6 struck, destroying 30 percent of the region. A total of 111 people were killed, and 45 were injured.

If a major tsunami were to occur, the cost of damage has been estimated to be roughly $441,000,000 - $620,000,000 in total due to the need of resettlement. These costs are also based on the possibility of four different scenarios if a powerful tsunami were to occur. There is a huge possibility that a very large scale earthquake could happen at anytime. This could generate the possibility of a tsunami striking Ecuador, but also other coastal regions thousands of miles away.

Discovering what the government of Ecuador is doing in order to mitigate a coastal casualty is challenging. The main focus of the government is growing the economy, unfortunately at the cost of the environment. Finding information online is the best way to prepare for a tsunami or any coastal hazard. As we have already discussed in class, knowing the possible risk that a tsunami could strike the coast at anytime is very important. Also, it is strongly recommended when visiting Ecuador to check in with hotel, or campground operators for tsunami information and how to be warned when one is likely to happen. The coast can be very dangerous after an earthquake, so it is pertinent to get as far away from the coastline after one occurs.

References:
 https://www.worlddata.info/america/ecuador/tsunamis.php

http://latinamericacurrentevents.com/ecuador-coast-high-risk-of-tsunamis-case-study-of-san-vicente/35308/

http://www.cwarn.org/tsunami/be-prepared

https://www.anywhere.com/ecuador/travel-guide/environmental-issues