A massive oil spill in Ecuador, in the northwestern Esmeraldas province, has covered multiple rivers and a key wildlife refuge in thick, black sludge, impacting more than half a million residents.

Three ships are expected to bring drinking water to Esmeraldas starting Tuesday, said Petroecuador. Ecuador in 2024 produced about 475,000 barrels of oil per day -- one of its main export products.

Quito: Ecuador's state-owned oil company declared ... The crude has since spread to at least five waterways, including the Esmeraldas River that flows into the Pacific Ocean.