# Flooding and school disruptions in Ecuador and Mexico > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/flooding-and-school-disruptions-in-ecuador-and-mexico > Updated: 2026-10-20T20:20:00.000Z. Sources: 36. Developments: 2. Severe weather, including intense rainfall linked to El Niño and cold fronts, has caused widespread flooding and disruption in Ecuador and Mexico. In Ecuador, heavy rains led to significant flooding in Guayaquil and 57 other urban sectors, impacting over 5,511 homes and causing sinkholes and fallen trees. In response, the Ecuadorian Ministry of Education suspended in-person classes in several zones, transitioning to virtual learning modalities. Experts have noted that the effectiveness of this shift to remote education is hindered by a digital divide. While internet access has increased in Ecuador, limited access to devices and connectivity in rural areas remains a critical challenge during climate emergencies. In Mexico, heavy rains and strong winds in Veracruz prompted authorities to suspend classes in 28 municipalities in the southern region as emergency teams monitored river levels. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-20: Ecuador shifts to virtual learning amid heavy rainfall and flooding Ecuador has transitioned to virtual classes following heavy rains and flooding, highlighting significant digital divide challenges in rural versus urban areas. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ecuador-shifts-to-virtual-learning-amid-heavy-rainfall-and-flooding ### 2026-10-18: Guayaquil and Veracruz face severe flooding and class suspensions Heavy rains and extreme weather have caused widespread flooding in Ecuador and triggered class suspensions in 28 municipalities in Veracruz, Mexico, due to a cold front and El Niño conditions. 30 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/iebem-facilities-released-by-teachers-following-promotion-disputes --- Cite as: Flooding and school disruptions in Ecuador and Mexico. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/flooding-and-school-disruptions-in-ecuador-and-mexico