Torrential rains in Bahía Blanca, Argentina, have caused at least 10 deaths and forced over a thousand evacuations. The city experienced extreme flooding, leading to the closure of infrastructure and the deployment of emergency services. The national government allocated 10 billion pesos in aid, as experts expressed concerns over the unprecedented severity of this weather event.
Recent torrential rains in Bahía Blanca, Argentina, have resulted in at least 10 fatalities and the evacuation of over a thousand residents. The city, which has a population of approximately 350,000 and is located 600 kilometers south of Buenos Aires, experienced eight hours of continuous rainfall, leading to severe flooding.
The intense rainfall, measuring over 400 millimeters (15 inches), significantly exceeds the city’s annual average and caused extensive damage to homes, hospitals, and transportation networks. In a notable incident, staff at José Penna Hospital were seen evacuating vulnerable infants, showcasing the urgent response to the emergency.
In light of the situation, the national government has sanctioned emergency aid totaling 10 billion pesos, equivalent to around $9.2 million. Buenos Aires province’s security minister, Javier Alonso, remarked on the unprecedented nature of the disaster, noting, “The biggest storm in Bahía Blanca was in 1930, with 175 millimeters. This is almost three times bigger.”
The floodwaters have been exacerbated by tidal currents, facilitating the displacement of vehicles and debris. Authorities have responded swiftly, deploying helicopters, boats, and ambulances while utilizing the Coast Guard for rescue efforts with inflatable boats. Meanwhile, Bahía Blanca Airport remains closed, and meteorological warnings of additional storms persist.
This calamity marks yet another climatic disaster for Bahía Blanca, which faced significant destruction during a windstorm in December 2023 that claimed 13 lives and left widespread damage throughout the area.
The flooding in Bahía Blanca has resulted in significant casualties and extensive evacuations, marking a catastrophic weather event for the region. With emergency aid approved by the government and ongoing rescue operations, the focus remains on recovery and assistance for those affected. This incident, along with previous climate-related disasters, highlights the increasing impact of extreme weather on vulnerable communities.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
