Ecuador extends red alert as El Niño strengthens, rain and wind hit coast

Ecuador's meteorological agency Inamhi issued a new alert for rain and wind gusts on the coast and western mountain range, extending a national red alert in effect since August 29 due to a strong El Niño expected this year. The alert signals heightened risk of flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas. The intensity and duration of El Niño remain uncertain, but the prolonged red alert indicates elevated preparedness.