Recent flooding in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, has led to the confirmed deaths of 16 individuals, with two young girls reported missing. The mayor announced substantial infrastructure damage, amounting to $400 million, while the government has approved emergency aid of 10 billion pesos. The storm has also resulted in widespread power outages.
In Bahia Blanca, Argentina, the death toll from recent flash flooding has risen to 16, with divers currently searching for two young girls, aged one and five, who have gone missing. The torrential rains, which resulted in a year’s worth of precipitation within a short period, caused significant flooding across various neighborhoods and led to over 1,000 evacuations.
The mayor of Bahia Blanca, Federico Susbielles, reported that the floods resulted in an estimated $400 million in infrastructure damage. During a press conference, he emphasized, “There are 16 confirmed deaths, but there are likely to be more”, highlighting ongoing search and rescue efforts.
The tragic situation surrounding the missing sisters has deeply affected the nation; authorities confirmed they were swept away while on the roof of a van with their mother. According to Provincial Security Minister Javier Alonso, divers are searching in areas still inundated with more than a meter of water.
Consequently, the storm has left many areas without power. At times, officials in Bahia Blanca had to suspend electricity due to the overwhelming water levels. To assist recovery, the government has authorized emergency reconstruction funds amounting to 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million).
Bahia Blanca has faced previous weather-related disasters, including a storm in December 2023 that resulted in 13 fatalities and substantial infrastructure damage across the region.
The catastrophic flooding in Bahia Blanca has resulted in a tragic loss of life and significant infrastructure damage, prompting extensive emergency efforts. As authorities continue their search for the missing girls, the city has also been authorized emergency funds to aid in recovery. The community is marked by sorrow and resilience as it confronts yet another severe weather-related disaster.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
