Heavy flooding in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, has claimed at least six lives following over 260mm of rainfall in a short period. Local infrastructure was severely damaged, prompting evacuations and emergency resources mobilization by the government.

Severe flooding in Bahia Blanca, Argentina has resulted in the deaths of at least six individuals. The torrential rains, exceeding 260mm within mere hours, struck the city on Friday, causing significant destruction including collapsed roads and destroyed bridges. Authorities have warned that the death toll may increase as they continue to assess the situation.

Evacuations took place in homes and hospitals, with distressing imagery circulating of mothers fleeing a submerged health facility with their newborns. Federico Susbielles, the city’s mayor, declared that Bahia Blanca was “hit by a natural disaster once again,” stressing that the situation has reached critical levels.

The Defence Minister, Luis Petri, reported that President Javier Milei has called for the total mobilization of resources, incorporating the armed forces, to assist in disaster response efforts. Petri indicated that the government is actively collaborating with local authorities to expedite assistance to those affected.

Manuel Adorni, spokesperson for President Milei, confirmed that the president would be cancelling his upcoming engagements in Mendoza due to the crisis, though it remains unclear whether he will visit Bahia Blanca directly.

The flooding in Bahia Blanca, resulting from torrential rainfall, has led to six confirmed fatalities, with the potential for further casualties. Local government officials have emphasized the critical nature of the disaster, prompting a mobilization of all available resources. Evacuations and emergency responses are currently underway as authorities continue to provide assistance to the affected populace.

Original Source: news.sky.com