Ecuador: Oil Spill Emergency - Flash Update No. 2 (as of 24 March 2025)

HIGHLIGHTS

• On 13 March, a major oil pipeline ruptured in inland Ecuador, contaminating several rivers and spilling into coastal areas. The spill has affected more than 500,000 people.
• The humanitarian emergency in Esmeraldas continues to severely impact access to basic services, public health and the livelihoods of affected communities. Despite ongoing response efforts, gaps continue to grow in the distribution of safe water, food assistance and inter-institutional coordination.
• Challenges in data integration between institutions persist, delaying aid delivery and creating coverage gaps.
• Following an official request for UN support from the government, a UN Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team arrived in Quito on 24 March where they met with the Resident Coordinator (RC) to discuss priorities and engaged with the National Humanitarian Forum prior to deploying to Esmeraldas. A Joint Environment Unit (JEU) team is anticipated to deploy by 28 March.

SITUATION OVERVIEW

On 13 March 2025, a significant oil spill in Esmeraldas province, caused by a landslide that ruptured the Transecuadorian Pipeline System (SOTE), severely contaminated critical water sources. The spill has reached coastal areas, affecting beaches and disrupting local livelihoods. In response, authorities declared a state of emergency in the cantons of Quinindé, Esmeraldas, Atacames, and Rioverde, imposing restrictions on access to water sources and contaminated coastal zones.

The crisis has left 500,000 people across seven parishes without access to safe water and sanitation, heightening the risk of waterborne diseases and other health complications. Reported health concerns include respiratory issues, gastrointestinal disorders, and headaches, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and individuals with pre-existing conditions. Food assistance is also urgently needed. The prolonged disruption of water services has exacerbated social tensions, with reports of threats against officials managing distribution efforts.

Authorities have activated provincial and local Emergency Operations Committees (COEs) and launched water distribution plans in Esmeraldas, Río Verde, and Atacames. However, critical gaps in coverage and service quality persist, fueling public protests and exacerbating social unrest. Ongoing security challenges in Esmeraldas—one of the provinces most affected by the national security crisis— further complicate the response, while heavy rainfall continues to hinder relief efforts.