Death Toll Rises to 16 in Bahía Blanca Flooding, Search for Missing Girls Continues
Flash flooding in Bahía Blanca, Argentina, has resulted in 16 confirmed deaths and the disappearance of two young girls. The flooding has caused approximately $400 million in damages and led to the evacuation of over 1,000 residents. Emergency reconstruction aid has been authorized to aid recovery efforts as authorities continue to search for the missing children.
On March 8, 2025, the port city of Bahía Blanca, Argentina, experienced unprecedented flash flooding following torrential rains, resulting in catastrophic consequences. As of Sunday, authorities confirmed the death toll had risen to 16, with ongoing search efforts for two young girls aged one and five, who were swept away by the torrential waters. Over 1,000 residents were evacuated as neighborhoods became inundated, and critical infrastructure suffered extensive damage.
Mayor Federico Susbielles reported that the flooding has caused damages estimated at $400 million. In a subsequent communication via social media platform X, he stated, “there are 16 confirmed deaths, but there are likely to be more” as recovery operations proceed. The heart-wrenching disappearance of the two sisters has profoundly affected the nation, with officials confirming they were on the roof of a van with their mother when a powerful wave displaced them.
Search activities continue in Bahía Blanca, where water levels exceed one meter. Provincial security minister Javier Alonso disclosed ongoing search efforts to locate the missing girls during an interview with Radio Mitre. In addition, the storm’s aftermath left the coastal region with widespread power outages, prompting city officials to suspend electricity in response to the flooding conditions.
In light of the disaster, the government has approved emergency reconstruction aid amounting to 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million at the official exchange rate). Bahía Blanca has previously encountered severe weather-related disasters, including a December 2023 storm that resulted in 13 fatalities and extensive infrastructure damage.
The flooding in Bahía Blanca has served as a tragic reminder of the devastating impact of extreme weather. With a confirmed death toll of 16 and the search for missing individuals ongoing, the local government is taking steps to address the aftermath. Emergency reconstruction efforts are being initiated to mitigate future occurrences. This event highlights the urgent need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness in vulnerable regions.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
