24 perish in Ecuador landslide, floods

Quito: At least 24 people were killed while 48 others sustained injuries following a landslide in Ecuador's capital Quito, Mayor Santiago Guarderas said.

According to details, rescue teams searched homes and streets covered by mud following the worst deluge in nearly two decades. 

On Monday, the torrential rains caused a build-up of water in a gorge near the working class neighborhoods of La Gasca and La Comuna—sending mud and rocks down, affecting electricity provision.    

Rains in Quito were equivalent to 75 liters per square meter—highest in nearly two decades. 

The country's disaster management agency said that a search operation of 12 people is still u nderway. 

Videos obtained showed a torrent sweeping away trees, vehicles, dumpsters and even electricity poles.

However, the mayor's office has set up shelters for affected families and has started clearing streets in the city. 

In the meantime, officials have not ruled out the possibility of further landslides.  

It is pertinent to mention here that Ecuador is facing heavy rains in several areas, which have caused rivers to overflow—affecting hundreds of homes and roads.