As of March 19, 13 provinces have been severely affected by the rains and flooding, which includes 3.5 million inhabitants. The most severe effects of the rains, which are projected to continue for another month, have been overflowing rivers, submerged homes and crops, displacements and fatalities, and the death of livestock.

According to UNICEF, there is a high risk of dengue fever, malaria, diarrhea, respiratory infections, and skin diseases. "Unfortunately, a natural disaster like this does not finish when the rain stops," says Karla P. Avila, ERD's program manager of Latin American and the Caribbean. "We will be paying extreme attention to this area to avoid the spread of these diseases."

ERD is partnering with the Diocese of Ecuador-Central in the district of La Maná. According to the lay vicar of the Episcopal Church in La Maná, 10 people have died and there are about 3,000 persons severely affected by the flooding in the immediate area. Three temporary shelters have been set up for the displaced. The primary emergency needs are food, clean water, clothing, blankets, mattresses, medicines, and medical care. With support of ERD, the diocese's provisions will include food roofs, tents, clothing, blankets, medicines, water and transportation.

To help people affected by flooding in Ecuador, make a donation to ERD's "Emergency Relief Fund" online here, or by calling 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development "Emergency Relief Fund" P.O. Box 7058, Merrifield, VA 22116-7058.