Ecuador Enforces Power Cuts Amid Worst Drought in 61 Years

The government announces extensive blackouts and red alerts across multiple provinces due to critically low water levels in hydroelectric plants.

Ecuador has initiated nine-hour power cuts in 12 out of its 24 provinces and imposed red alerts in 19 areas.
The drought, the worst in 61 years, has led to severe water shortages, wildfires, and food security issues.
Hydroelectric plants, which supply 70% of Ecuador's electricity, are operating at critically low water levels.
President Daniel Noboa attributes the crisis to both the prolonged drought and previous governments' failure to maintain infrastructure.
The government has also implemented nightly power cuts nationwide from Monday to Thursday to conserve water resources.