Heavy rains cause debris accumulation on Santa Elena and Manabí beaches

Intense rainfall linked to El Niño has caused significant accumulations of debris, including logs, branches, and vegetation, along the coasts of Santa Elena and Manabí. In areas such as Olón, San José, Montañita, and Ayampe, river runoff has carried large amounts of natural waste into the sea, which is then pushed onto the sand by waves and currents.

This phenomenon, known as palizada, has also resulted in brown-colored water near river mouths due to high levels of suspended silt and clay. The accumulation of debris is impacting local tourism, as restaurants and businesses that rely on visitors face difficulties with the altered landscape and reduced recreational space. Authorities and specialists note that while this is not a new phenomenon, the current intensity is driven by increased river flows and atypical seasonal conditions.