Argentina is mourning the loss of at least 16 lives due to flash floods in Bahia Blanca. President Javier Milei has declared three days of national mourning. The heavy rainfall, equivalent to a year’s worth, struck on Friday, leading to infrastructure damages of $400 million. Financial aid of $9.2 million has been authorized for recovery efforts.
Argentina is currently in mourning following a devastating flash flood that has claimed the lives of at least 16 individuals in the port city of Bahia Blanca, located south of Buenos Aires. The catastrophic event has also resulted in several people reported missing. In light of this tragedy, President Javier Milei has declared a period of national mourning lasting three days to honor the victims, though the specific start date for this mourning period has yet to be announced.
The floods were triggered by an extraordinary rainfall, where approximately 260 millimeters (10 inches) fell within a few hours on Friday. This level of precipitation has been described as equivalent to a year’s worth of rain. Javier Alonso, the Minister of Security for the Province of Buenos Aires, confirmed the tragic loss of two young girls, aged one and five, who were swept away during the flooding.
Bahia Blanca’s Mayor, Federico Susbielles, reported that the flooding has caused infrastructure damages amounting to $400 million. He noted during a news conference that while 16 deaths have been confirmed, the search for additional victims continues, indicating that the death toll may rise. Furthermore, the storm has resulted in widespread power outages in the coastal area.
In response to the disaster, Economy Minister Luis Caputo announced a financial aid package authorized by the government amounting to 10 billion pesos ($9.2 million) for Bahia Blanca, a city home to around 300,000 residents. The government has pledged that all available national resources will be deployed to assist those affected during this period of immense sorrow for the nation.
In conclusion, the tragedy in Bahia Blanca exemplifies the devastating effects of severe weather events, leading to significant loss of life and extensive infrastructure damage. The Argentine government has responded by declaring national mourning and providing financial aid to assist recovery efforts. As search operations continue, the nation stands in solidarity with the affected families during this difficult time.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
