A devastating storm in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, has led to 13 fatalities and displaced hundreds, with two children missing. The storm unleashed a year’s worth of rain in mere hours, causing severe flooding and power outages. Officials emphasize the impact of climate change and the need for urban preparedness in response to such extreme weather events.
On Saturday, officials reported that the port city of Bahia Blanca, Argentina, suffered devastating floods after receiving an entire year’s worth of rain in just hours, resulting in 13 fatalities and displacing hundreds. Two young girls, ages four and one, are currently unaccounted for after being swept away by floodwaters following the storm on Friday.
The torrential rains inundated hospitals, turned neighborhoods into islands, and caused extensive power outages. National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich described the destruction, stating that Bahia Blanca was “destroyed.” The death toll has increased from ten to thirteen, with the mayor’s office anticipating further casualties.
The storm saw nearly 400 millimeters of rain in merely eight hours, equating to what the city usually receives over an entire year. Provincial security minister Javier Alonso referred to this situation as “unprecedented.” Tensions escalated when Bullrich and Defense Minister Luis Petri attempted to visit affected areas, receiving angry rebukes from residents who felt assistance was delayed.
Andrea Dufourg, an environmental official, remarked that this catastrophic weather event exemplifies the effects of climate change, stating the necessity to prepare cities and improve early warning systems. Although the number of evacuees decreased to 850 from a peak of 1,321, the emergency response remained critical.
The storm necessitated the evacuation of Jose Penna Hospital, where infants were carried to safety by medical staff and aided by the army. Dr. Eduardo Seminara described the devastation in his office, stating, “Everything is ruined,” while also expressing relief that no lives were lost.
Images from local media highlighted flooded businesses and instances of looting. The government authorized emergency reconstruction funds of 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million). Surrounding coastal areas experienced significant power outages due to the storm, although Buenos Aires encountered lesser impacts with no major damage reported.
Bay Blanca has a history of suffering from extreme weather occurrences, including another storm in 2023 that also resulted in thirteen casualties. Heavy rainfall was also reported in the resort town of Mar del Plata, with officials suspending activities and advising residents to stay indoors.
In conclusion, the catastrophic storm that struck Bahia Blanca, Argentina, resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction, prompting critical emergency responses and evacuations. The unprecedented rainfall highlights the pressing concerns regarding climate change and the need for improved urban preparedness. Authorities have mobilized resources to aid recovery, yet the city faces formidable challenges in the aftermath of this disaster.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
