Guayaquil experiences flooding and traffic disruptions due to storms

Intense rainfall and electrical storms in Guayaquil on October 26, 2026, caused flooding in at least 42 sectors of the city. Major thoroughfares, including Benjamín Carrión, Juan Tanca Marengo, and the Vía Perimetral, experienced significant water accumulation.

Traffic authorities reported that while the Santa Ana tunnel has been reopened to vehicles, the Carmen tunnel remains closed. To manage congestion, the Transit and Mobility Agency (ATM) temporarily opened Metrovía exclusive lanes to private vehicles, though priority remains with the public transport system.

At José Joaquín de Olmedo airport, operations were impacted by delays and cancellations of both domestic and international flights, including services to New York, Bogotá, Lima, and Fort Lauderdale. Authorities have advised citizens to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel while weather conditions persist.