Rebuilding Bahia Blanca: The Aftermath of a Devastating Storm

Following a devastating storm in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, officials report ten deaths and the evacuation of over 1,000 residents. The torrential rains, deemed unprecedented, prompted emergency aid initiatives as the region grapples with recovery from this catastrophic event.

Buenos Aires officials have declared that reconstruction efforts are necessary following severe storms in Bahia Blanca, which resulted in the loss of at least ten lives. The devastating flooding forced over 1,000 residents to evacuate their homes. Concerns grow as reports indicate that two young sisters are still missing amidst the chaos.

Minister Carlos Bianco stated, “We have to rebuild a city. There are people who lost everything.” The mayor’s office confirmed the rising death toll, with five fatalities reported from flooded roads. The total number of evacuees reached 1,128 as of early Saturday, with ongoing assessments indicating potential increases in the death count.

The torrential rains, described as “unprecedented,” began Friday, overwhelming Bahia Blanca with over 15 inches of rainfall in just eight hours. Images from local media depict significant devastation, including flooded shops and incidents of looting. The government responded by allocating emergency reconstruction aid totaling 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million).

The storm also disrupted power supply to large portions of the coastal area, although efforts restored electricity to around 30,000 users by Saturday morning. Historically, Bahia Blanca has faced severe weather challenges, including a deadly storm in December 2023. Nearby Mar del Plata suspended evening activities and advised residents to stay indoors, while the city of Buenos Aires experienced the storm’s effects with no significant damage reported.

In summary, the recent storm in Bahia Blanca has wreaked havoc, necessitating significant rebuilding efforts as official reports confirm ten fatalities and widespread evacuations. The government has activated emergency funding to address the crisis and restore essential services. As recovery initiatives unfold, the community’s resilience in the face of natural disasters remains paramount.

Original Source: www.france24.com