Ibarra, Atuntaqui and Cotacachi Flooding Hits Streets, Homes and Crops

Heavy rain hit Ecuador's northern highlands hard on Thursday, June 11, flooding streets, trapping vehicles and damaging crops around Ibarra, Atuntaqui and Cotacachi.

In Ibarra and Atuntaqui, water rose above half a meter in some areas and caused vehicle mobility to collapse. Cars and taxis were left stuck after water entered engines, and firefighters and volunteers pushed vehicles to safer locations.

Where the Problems Were Reported

In Ibarra, one of the worst flooded points was the south-north lane of the E35 at the entrance to the city. The water buildup made traffic difficult on a high-flow road and created congestion for users.

In both Atuntaqui and Ibarra, manhole covers were pushed out of drains and paving stones came loose from streets.

Local emergency calls went through ECU 911, and the fire departments in the affected cantons were activated after the reports came in.

Authorities also reported damage beyond roads. Commercial premises, restaurants and public and private institutions felt the effects of the unusual weather event. Strong winds lifted roofing and knocked down trees.

Crops Hit in Cotacachi

In Cotacachi, the Peribuela community reported agricultural losses after the storm and hail.

Several hectares of corn and other fruit crops were destroyed. Alonso Perugachi, one of the affected farmers, said he lost corn that was meant to support his family this year.

The number of affected families was not yet known. The Risk Secretariat was expected to evaluate the situation on Friday, June 12, and coordinate attention with municipal governments and the Ministry of Human Development.

The church in Atuntaqui also flooded after rainwater entered the temple, forcing parishioners to organize an improvised cleanup to remove water and protect furniture and other items.

What This Means for Expats

For foreign residents in Ibarra, Cotacachi, Otavalo or the broader northern-highlands corridor, this is a reminder that highland rain can become a mobility problem very quickly.

If you are driving the E35 or moving between towns after a heavy storm, watch for standing water, loose pavement, open drains and stalled vehicles. The practical issue is not just rain itself; it is what the drainage and road surface look like afterward.