Ecuador Declares State of Emergency Over Severe Drought, Wildfires

Ecuador, a South American country that continues to experience severe drought and wildfires, has declared a 60-day state of emergency.

In Ecuador, wildfires have now burned more than 100 square kilometers in 17 places, including the Cajas National Park.

There have been more than 5,000 wildfires this year, burning 400 square kilometers, killing six people, injuring 45 and killing 40,000 livestock.

It also relies on hydropower for 70% of its electricity output, but the ongoing drought has significantly reduced dam storage, limiting power supplies for 14 hours a day.