![BREAKING After Japan’s Powerful Earthquake A 7.8 Magnitude Hits Ecuador Half Ton Killed](https://www.srjnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/BREAKING-After-Japan’s-Powerful-Earthquake-A-7.8-Magnitude-Hits-Ecuador-Half-Ton-Killed.jpg)
UPDATE: 233 reported dead
In about 24 hours after Japan’s massive earthquake, Ecuador has been hit by a 7.8-magnitude killing about fifty people. The death tol expected to rise.
The epicenter of the quake was 15 miles southeast of Muisne in Ecuador. It was felt about 105 miles away, as far away as the capital Quito. It shaking was felt for about 40 seconds.
The earthquake occurred around nightfall, just before 7 p.m. local time (8 p.m. ET), and several aftershocks continued including one of 5.6-magnitude.
The deaths due to quake are reported in northern provinces of Esmeraldas, Guayas and Manabi. A nationwide state of exception has been declared giving the government expanded authority.
The damages of buildings and other properties include a collapse of a bridge in the city. Several houses fell and parked cars were damaged in the Pedernales district.
Ecuadors’ Vice President Jorge Glass confirmed 41 deaths but said it to be a preliminary figure.
President Rafael Correa conveyed through Twitter is cutting the Italy trip short and returning back home. He tweeted, “Our infinite love to the families of the dead.”
The Geopysics Institute of Ecuador said about 10,000 military troops and 3,500 police have been sent to the quake affected areas.