Severe Storm Causes Flooding and Evacuations in Bahía Blanca
Bahía Blanca faced severe flooding and destruction due to a storm, leading to evacuations of families and newborns from healthcare facilities. Over 270 mm of rain fell in a short time, causing widespread disruption, energy outages, and activation of emergency procedures. The municipality has halted all activities, advising residents to seek shelter amidst ongoing rainfall.
Bahía Blanca has experienced severe flooding and destruction following a fierce storm that began around 3:40 AM local time on Friday. Authorities initiated the evacuation of families and newborns from a neonatal unit in response to the flooding, impacting hospitals and public infrastructure. The storm delivered over 270 millimeters of rain within four hours, disrupting electricity for many residents in a city of over 350,000 inhabitants.
The Hospital Interzonal General de Agudos “Dr. José Penna,” a critical healthcare facility, was among the affected locations, with flooding prompting emergency evacuations of patients and staff. Images broadcasted on television depicted nurses evacuating vulnerable newborns from the neonatal ward. The Buenos Aires Province government confirmed that the Army is assisting in transferring patients as the damage from the storm is assessed.
Despite the extensive evacuations, local officials have reported no casualties, although at least 40 households were displaced. According to the mayor’s office, a significant portion of the city remains impassable under the current conditions, necessitating the use of heavy machinery to navigate through the flooding.
Meteorological services have issued a red alert as rainfall persists, leading schools to cancel classes and public transport to cease operations, advising residents to seek shelter. In light of the ongoing emergency, the Municipality of Bahía Blanca mandated a complete halt to activities until further notice. This recent event echoes Bahía Blanca’s history of climatic disasters, including a deadly windstorm in December 2023 that resulted in 13 fatalities and extensive damage to infrastructure.
The recent severe storm in Bahía Blanca has led to extensive flooding, prompting evacuations and significant disruption to public services and healthcare facilities. The city’s current state is critical, with ongoing rain and challenges in navigating the affected areas. The mayor’s office has instigated emergency protocols to ensure the safety of residents, highlighting the city’s vulnerability to climatic disasters.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
