Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


                  Death Toll From Ecuador Earthquake Nears 650

   by VOA News

   The death toll from last week's earthquake in Ecuador has risen to 646,
   President Rafael Correa said Saturday.

   Last Saturday's quake, the worst to hit the nation in nearly seven
   decades, injured about 12,500 people and left 130 missing along the
   country's Pacific coast.

   "These have been sad days for the homeland," a visibly moved Correa
   said during his regular Saturday TV broadcast. "The country is in
   crisis."

   Thousands of soldiers and police have been deployed throughout Ecuador
   to provide emergency relief, including temporary shelters and food. In
   addition, scores of aid workers from dozens of nations, including
   Spain, Peru, Cuba, Bolivia and Venezuela, have arrived to assist in the
   relief efforts.

   The United Nations on Friday appealed for $72.7 million to provide aid
   to 350,000 people over the next three months -- about half the number
   it estimates are in need of help.

   UNICEF reports that the quake has affected at least 150,000 children,
   having damaged 119 schools.

   Humanitarian organizations warn that the country still faces huge
   risks, as the homeless are now prey to disease-bearing mosquitoes and
   dirty drinking water.

   Electricity and water supplies are only being slowly restored.
     __________________________________________________________________

   [1]http://www.voanews.com/content/death-toll-ecuador-earthquake/3299861
   .html

References

   1. http://www.voanews.com/content/death-toll-ecuador-earthquake/3299861.html