Torrential rains in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, caused at least ten deaths and over a thousand evacuations, flooding homes and hospitals. Over 400 mm of rain fell, prompting emergency government aid and rescue operations. As further storms are predicted, the community braces for continued impacts from this climate disaster.
On Friday, torrential rains in the Argentine port city of Bahia Blanca resulted in at least ten fatalities and the evacuation of over a thousand residents. The relentless rainfall flooded homes, hospitals, and roadways, compelling officials to cut power in affected areas. After eight hours of continuous rain, the city, which has a population of 350,000, was left largely submerged, and the Jose Penna hospital required evacuation due to flooding in its wards.
Authorities reported that approximately 1,321 individuals were safely evacuated from the region, situated 600 kilometers south of Buenos Aires. In response to the disaster, the national government has approved emergency aid of 10 billion pesos (approximately 9.2 million dollars) to support recovery efforts. The unprecedented rainfall, totaling more than 400 millimeters (15 inches), has been described as a severe weather event, surpassing previous records.
Bahia Blanca’s airport has been closed indefinitely as precautionary measures were enacted, including power supply interruptions to mitigate the risk of electric shocks. In support of rescue operations, the provincial government mobilized helicopters, canoes, ambulances, and trucks laden with essential supplies. The coast guard also assisted through the use of inflatable boats.
Residents experienced a sudden influx of water; Flavia Viera Romero recounted her harrowing experience as floodwaters surged into her home. Local authorities remain vigilant due to meteorological alerts indicating the possibility of additional storms. The flooding severely impacted the Jose Penna intensive care hospital, prompting an urgent evacuation of patients and staff, and television reports captured medical professionals assisting vulnerable infants out of the facility.
The city’s geography exacerbates flooding risks, with sloping streets directing water towards the sea, resulting in swift currents that carried away debris and vehicles. Bahia Blanca has endured climate catastrophes in the past, including a windstorm in December 2023 that claimed 13 lives and caused significant destruction to properties.
The floods in Bahia Blanca, driven by unprecedented rainfall, have led to tragic loss of life and large-scale evacuations. The government’s swift response, including emergency aid and deployment of rescue resources, highlights efforts to manage the crisis. Residents continue to face challenges while remaining vigilant for potential future storms. This incident underscores the urgent need for improved climate resilience strategies in vulnerable areas.
Original Source: thesun.my
