A top official reported that at least ten lives were lost due to a storm in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, necessitating significant reconstruction efforts. More than 1,000 people were evacuated, with two sisters still missing. Emergency aid of 10 billion pesos has been authorized in response to the damages caused by unprecedented rain and flooding.
On Saturday, a senior official from Buenos Aires province remarked, “We have to rebuild a city,” following a devastating storm that resulted in at least ten fatalities in Bahia Blanca, located south of the Argentine capital. The storm produced torrential rains leading to extensive flooding, prompting the evacuation of over 1,000 residents. Two young sisters, ages four and one, are reported missing amidst the disaster.
Carlos Bianco, Buenos Aires government minister, stated on local radio, “The national and provincial governments are collaborating to deal with the storm.” He emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting, “Basically, we have to rebuild a city. There are people who lost everything.” The mayor’s office updated that the death count included five people who perished on flooded roadways and indicated that the toll could still rise as operations continue in the 350,000-population city.
The unprecedented rain began early Friday, delivering over 15 inches (400 millimeters) within just eight hours, according to Javier Alonso, the province’s security minister. Reports from local media depicted scenes of devastation, including flooded shops and instances of looting overnight. In response, the government has authorized emergency reconstruction aid totaling 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million at the official exchange rate).
Furthermore, the storm caused widespread power outages across the coastal vicinity, although by Saturday morning, local utilities managed to restore service to around 30,000 consumers. Bahia Blanca has a history of weather-related disasters, notably a storm last December that resulted in 13 deaths. In the nearby resort town of Mar del Plata, officials halted evening activities and advised residents to stay indoors. Buenos Aires was also affected by the storm but reported no significant damage.
In summary, Bahia Blanca faces a challenging recovery following a catastrophic storm that resulted in ten fatalities, over a thousand evacuations, and significant infrastructure damage. The Argentine government is mobilizing resources for reconstruction efforts while coordinating with local authorities. This recent disaster underscores the city’s vulnerability to extreme weather, as it has previously suffered similar calamities. Urgent measures are being implemented to aid impacted residents and restore normalcy in the region.
Original Source: www.communitynewspapergroup.com
