  | |
| Local date | 20 June 1698 |
|---|---|
| Magnitude | 7.2–7.9 Muk |
| Epicenter | 1°12′S 78°42′W / 1.2°S 78.7°W |
| Areas affected | Ecuador |
| Max. intensity | MMI X (Extreme) |
| Casualties | >6,500 fatalities |
The 1698 Ambato earthquake affected the interior of Ecuador on 20 June at 01:00 local time. The earthquake seismic magnitude (Muk) ranged from 7.2 to 7.9. Damage was widespread and extreme in the provinces of Tungurahua, Cotopaxi and Chimborazo. The earthquake also triggered mudflows along the Ambato River destroying a city and killing many residents. An estimated 6,500 fatalities were attributed to the shock and thousands more from the landslides.