(CNN) — At least 13 people died after a magnitude 6.8 earthquake struck southern Ecuador on Saturday afternoon, according to government officials.
The earthquake struck near the southern town of Baláo and was more than 65 km (nearly 41 miles) deep, according to the United States Geological Survey.
An estimated 461 people were injured in the quake, according to a report from the Ecuadorian president's office. The government had previously reported that 16 people were killed but later revised the death toll.
In the province of El Oro, at least 11 people died.
At least one other death was reported in the province of Azuay, according to the communications department for Ecuador's president. In an earlier statement, authorities said the person in Azuay was killed when a wall collapsed onto a car and that at least three of the victims in El Oro died when a security camera tower came down.
People who were injured were being treated at hospitals, the Presidency added, but did not provide further details.
The USGS gave the tremor an"orange alert," saying "significant casualties are likely and the disaster is potentially widespread."
"Past events with this alert level have required a regional or national level response," the USGS added. It also estimated damage and economic losses were possible.
Relatives of a CNN producer in the western port city of Guayaquilsaid they felt "very strong" tremors.
CNN afiliateEcuavisa reported structural damage to buildings in Cuenca, one of the country's biggest cities. The historic city is in the UN list of world heritage sites.
There is no tsunami warning in effect for the area, according to the US National Weather Service.
The airports of Guayaquil and Cuenca remained open and operational, the country's statement said.
-
Over 20 people arrested during 3rd day of Gaza protests at Indiana University
Over 20 people were arrested in connection with an ongoing encampment on Indiana University’s campus as protests calling for a ceasefire in Gaza continue for a third day.Early voting for primary election begins at 8 satellite voting centers
Ahead of the May 7 primary election, Saturday is the first day to vote at eight satellite centers...Woman shot, killed at home near North German Church Road
A woman was shot and killed at a home located near 42nd Street and North German Church Road early Saturday morning.On top of the world: Barbara Boyd turns 95!
Join us in celebrating trailblazing WRTV journalist Barbara Boyd who is celebrating her 95th birthday today.