Earthquake measuring 6 on the Richter Scale hit Ecuador

Quito, April 22: An earthquake measuring 6 on the Richter Scale hit Ecuador late Thursday, Xinhua cited the US Geological Survey as saying.

The toll from the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit Ecuador last week, has climbed to 587 over the weekend, including 27 foreigners, the government has said.

Thursday's report said 539 of the victims were identified and claimed by their families, while the identities of 48 bodies were still being investigated, Xinhua news agency reported.

Relief efforts and materials are urgently needed. By Thursday afternoon, a campaign launched by Ecuador's National Assembly had already gathered $377,197, according to a parliament statement.

IANS

IANS