Ecuador's Rainy Season Has Hit 21,000 People — Here's What to Watch in Cuenca

Ecuador's rainy season has been brutal this year. Since January 1, over 21,089 people have been affected across the country, with three deaths and 14 injuries reported. Eight provinces remain under a 90-day state of emergency.

The Hardest Hit Provinces

The damage is significant: 784 hectares of crops destroyed, 21.6 kilometers of roads damaged, and 13 bridges compromised.

What About Cuenca?

Cuenca isn't among the hardest-hit cities, but Azuay province is seeing consistent heavy rainfall. If you've noticed the rivers running higher than usual — that's why.

Practical impacts for expats:

• Day trips: Roads to the coast (especially via Cajas and Molleturo) can be affected by landslides. Check conditions before driving to the beach.
• Hiking: Cajas National Park trails may be muddy or partially closed. The park sometimes restricts access during heavy rain.
• Around town: Flash flooding in lower areas of Cuenca (near the rivers) is possible during intense downpours. The Tomebamba, Yanuncay, and Tarqui rivers all rise quickly.

The Numbers Nationwide

Since January, Ecuador has logged 1,146 weather-related events across all 24 provinces:

• Landslides: 38.5% of all events
• Flooding: 33.9%
• Intense rainfall: 12%

What to Do

• Keep your phone charged and INAMHI bookmarked for weather alerts
• If you drive, avoid mountain passes at night during heavy rain
• Stock a basic emergency kit (flashlight, water, first aid) — power outages happen during storms
• Check road conditions on MTOP before any long drives

The rainy season typically runs through May. We're not even at the halfway point.

Sources: MercoPress, CuencaHighLife