Israel Warns Travelers in Ecuador Amid Red Alert

Israel's Foreign Ministry has issued an advisory urging Israelis in Ecuador to exercise heightened caution after local authorities declared a red alert across the entire country. The declaration comes in response to the development and forecasts of the El Niño phenomenon, a climate pattern caused by abnormal warming of ocean waters.

According to the advisory, Ecuadorian authorities have instructed local governments to strengthen preparedness and response to extreme weather events. El Niño affects rainfall patterns, temperatures, and wind conditions, and in certain areas can bring heavy rains, flooding, rising river levels, and landslides, while other regions may experience drought and heat.

The Foreign Ministry is asking Israelis in Ecuador to exercise maximum caution, stay updated on local authority guidelines, and avoid staying or traveling in areas prone to flooding, landslides, and water flows. Additionally, travelers are advised to avoid crossing rivers, streams, or flooded roads, even if water levels appear low.

Extreme weather events have been recorded in recent months in various countries around the world. In late August, an unusual winter storm system reached Israel, with rain falling in the north and center of the country amid concerns of flooding. During that same period, a woman in Switzerland was saved thanks to a government alert sent to her mobile phone before a severe hailstorm struck the area.

In case of emergency, Israelis in Ecuador can contact the local emergency center at 911. During emergencies, they can also reach the Israeli Embassy in Quito's emergency line at +59323971500.