Following severe flooding in Bahía Blanca, Argentina, the death toll has risen to 16, with ongoing search efforts for two missing sisters. Torrential rains led to massive evacuations and $400 million in damage, prompting emergency aid from the government. This disaster follows a history of severe weather events in the region.
On March 8, 2025, the port city of Bahía Blanca, situated 600 kilometers south of Buenos Aires, experienced severe flooding following torrential rains, resulting in the evacuation of over 1,000 residents. The downpour delivered an entire year’s worth of rain within hours, leading to significant damage to homes, hospitals, and road infrastructure. The local government has reported that the flooding has resulted in approximately $400 million in infrastructure damages.
As of Sunday, Argentine authorities have reported that the death toll from the flooding has risen to 16 individuals, and search efforts are ongoing for two young sisters aged one and five who were swept away. Mayor Federico Susbielles provided updates during a press conference, indicating that while 16 deaths have been confirmed, the total number may increase as rescue operations continue.
The tragic situation regarding the two missing sisters has garnered significant national attention. Reports confirm that the girls were on a van’s roof with their mother when a powerful wave of water swept them away. Divers are actively searching the impacted area, which remains inundated with more than a meter of water.
The storm has also left many surrounding coastal regions without power, forcing local officials to suspend electricity in Bahía Blanca due to the extreme flooding. In response, the Argentine government has mobilized 10 billion pesos (around $9.2 million at the official exchange rate) for emergency reconstruction aid.
Bahía Blanca has previously faced weather-related disasters, including a devastating storm in December 2023 that resulted in 13 fatalities, widespread destruction of infrastructure, and significant damage to residential buildings.
In conclusion, the flash flooding in Bahía Blanca has resulted in a tragic loss of life, significant infrastructural damage, and the ongoing search for missing individuals. Authorities are actively responding with emergency aid and recovery efforts as the community grapples with the aftermath of this natural disaster. As search operations proceed, there is a heightened concern for the well-being of the local population and the resilience of the city amidst past weather-related calamities.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
