[sexobon]

QUITO, April 16 (Reuters) - A strong earthquake of magnitude 7.8 struck off the northwest Pacific coast of Ecuador late on Saturday, causing "considerable damage" near the epicenter as well as in the commercial hub of Guayaquil, the government said.

Confused residents in the capital Quito streamed into the streets and authorities warned of strong waves on the Andean nation's coast. ...

... Some parts of the capital were without power or telephone service, with many communicating only via Whatsapp. ...