The port city of Bahia Blanca, Argentina, experienced devastating flooding due to torrential rains, resulting in ten deaths and over 1,300 evacuations. The city was submerged under 400 millimeters of rain, causing severe infrastructural damage and necessitating emergency responses from the government. Witnesses detailed the rapid flooding that occurred in residential areas, and local authorities are continuing to monitor the situation for additional storms.
On Friday, torrential rains in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, resulted in at least ten fatalities and the evacuation of over 1,300 individuals. The flooding overwhelmed homes and hospitals, leading to significant infrastructure damage and power outages. The Jose Penna Hospital had to evacuate patients from its neonatal unit, with military assistance deployed for rescue operations.
The city received more than 400 millimeters (15 inches) of rain within a matter of hours, which is the annual average, an event deemed “unprecedented” by Javier Alonso, the security minister for Buenos Aires province. He noted that this storm exceeded the historic storm of 1930 by nearly three times.
In response to the devastation, the provincial government has mobilized resources, including helicopters, boats, and ambulances equipped with food and water for the affected area. With continued risk of further storm activity, Bahia Blanca’s airport remains closed until further notice, and local officials have noticed significant water accumulations in the streets.
Witnesses described the rapid onset of the flooding. One resident, Flavia Viera Romero, recounted how a meter-and-a-half wall of water flooded her home, requiring her to seek refuge in her truck with her family. This city has previously faced severe climate-related disasters, including a windstorm in December 2023, which resulted in numerous casualties and extensive damage.
The catastrophic flooding in Bahia Blanca exemplifies the severe impact of climate-related events on communities. With a substantial financial aid package in place and emergency services actively engaged, efforts are underway to assist evacuees and manage the crisis. The city’s historical vulnerability to such disasters highlights the ongoing need for preparedness against natural calamities. Authorities remain vigilant for possible future storms as they work to recover from this unprecedented deluge.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
