Argentina has declared three days of national mourning after flash floods in Bahia Blanca caused 16 deaths and left many missing. The floods resulted in severe infrastructure damage, prompting the government to allocate emergency aid. Prominent figures have expressed condolences, while environmental officials cite climate change as a contributing factor to the disaster.
Argentina has declared three days of national mourning following a devastating flash flood that resulted in 16 confirmed deaths, with several individuals still reported missing. The floods occurred in Bahia Blanca, a major port city in Buenos Aires province, where an extraordinary amount of rainfall fell within a short period, leading to severe inundation in various neighborhoods.
The tragic incident involved two young sisters, aged one and five, who were swept away while attempting to escape the rising waters. The provincial security minister, Javier Alonso, reported their disappearance on Sunday, adding that rescuers are actively searching the area, where floodwaters remain over a meter deep.
Bahia Blanca Mayor Federico Susbielles stated that the flooding has resulted in an estimated $400 million in damage to local infrastructure. He expressed concerns over the likelihood of a higher death toll as search operations continue.
Due to the severe weather, large portions of the coastal area experienced power outages, prompting city officials to suspend electricity in certain areas to ensure safety. Argentine President Javier Milei announced the national mourning and pledged government support for the victims, emphasizing the need for swift recovery assistance.
Emergency reconstruction aid amounting to 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million) has been approved by the government in response to the disaster. Condolences have also been expressed by prominent figures, including Argentine football star Lionel Messi, who extended his sympathies to the grieving families.
Environmental official Andrea Dufourg highlighted this event as indicative of climate change, advocating for the necessity of preparedness in urban areas against similar extreme weather occurrences. Bahia Blanca has previously faced severe weather challenges, including a deadly storm in December 2023 that resulted in 13 fatalities.
In conclusion, the recent floods in Argentina’s Bahia Blanca have prompted a national mourning period due to the tragic loss of life and widespread infrastructure damage. The government has mobilized resources for recovery and reconstruction, while experts warn that such extreme weather events highlight critical climate change issues. The solidarity shown by figures like Lionel Messi underscores the collective grief felt throughout the nation during this somber time.
Original Source: www.swiowanewssource.com
