Devastating Storm Claims Lives and Displaces Hundreds in Bahia Blanca
Bahia Blanca, Argentina, faced a devastating storm that resulted in 13 fatalities and hundreds of displacements, with two young girls reported missing. The torrential rain caused severe flooding, significant infrastructure damage, and power outages. Local officials emphasize the need for effective disaster preparedness amid climate change challenges. Emergency reconstruction aid has been authorized to support recovery efforts.
Argentina’s port city, Bahia Blanca, has recently experienced a devastating storm that resulted in catastrophic flooding, with approximately one year’s worth of rainfall occurring within a few hours. The storm claimed the lives of at least 13 individuals and displaced hundreds from their homes, as stated by officials on Saturday. Tragically, two young girls, aged four and one, remain missing, believed to have been swept away by the floodwaters.
The intense deluge caused significant infrastructure damage, submerging hospital rooms and turning neighborhoods into islands, while large areas of the city experienced power outages. National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich expressed that Bahia Blanca was “destroyed” and officials warned that further casualties may occur as assessments continue. Five victims reportedly died while trapped in their vehicles as floodwaters unexpectedly rose.
Beginning Friday morning, the rainfall amounted to nearly 400 millimeters (15.7 inches) within a span of eight hours, a volume typically accumulated over an entire year. This unprecedented weather event was underscored by provincial security minister Javier Alonso’s remarks. Due to the growing discontent among residents, tensions escalated during the visit of Bullrich and Defense Minister Luis Petri to affected neighborhoods, with some locals expressing their frustrations about delayed responses.
Environmental official Andrea Dufourg commented that the extreme weather serves as a clear indication of climate change. Dufourg emphasized the need for preparedness and effective early warning systems to mitigate future disasters. The mayor’s office reported that the number of evacuees had decreased from a peak of 1,321 to 850 on Saturday, although scenes of desperation unfolded as medical personnel evacuated infants from Jose Penna hospital amidst the flooding.
Footage depicted hospital staff carrying babies to safety with army assistance. Dr. Eduardo Seminara described the extensive damage to his office, stating, “Everything is ruined,” though he expressed gratitude that no lives were lost among his family. The storm also led to reports of looting in the area and prompted the government’s approval of emergency reconstruction aid amounting to 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million). Meanwhile, power outages affected much of the coastal region, as local officials were forced to suspend electricity in response to severe flood conditions.
Bahia Blanca has a history of weather-related disasters; notably, a storm in December 2023 had previously claimed 13 lives and resulted in significant property damage. The storm’s aftermath also affected the nearby resort town of Mar del Plata, where evening activities were suspended, while Buenos Aires experienced storms but suffered minimal damage overall.
In summary, the catastrophic storm in Bahia Blanca has led to significant loss of life, extensive property damage, and widespread displacement. The community grapples with the immediate aftermath, with ongoing concerns about climate change and the necessity for improved disaster preparedness. With emergency aid sanctioned, authorities continue to assess the situation and support those affected by this unprecedented deluge.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
