Bahia Blanca, Argentina, has faced devastating impacts from a record rainfall, resulting in 13 fatalities and widespread flooding. The storm displaced hundreds of residents and overwhelmed local infrastructure, prompting emergency responses and significant aid measures. Rescue efforts are ongoing for missing individuals as the community grapples with the aftermath of the disaster.
Bahia Blanca, Argentina’s port city, has been severely impacted by an unprecedented rainstorm, accumulating a year’s worth of rainfall within just a few hours. Tragically, this disaster has resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals, prompting widespread evacuations as hundreds were displaced from their homes. The deluge caused significant flooding, with reports highlighting that hospital rooms became submerged and entire neighborhoods were isolated due to rising waters.
Authorities reported two young girls, aged one and four, as missing, potentially swept away by the floodwaters. As the death toll increased from ten to thirteen, National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich emphasized the catastrophic scale of the event, stating that Bahia Blanca had been “destroyed.”
The storm wreaked havoc beginning Friday, delivering over 400 millimeters of rain within eight hours—essentially the annual average for the region. In light of the damage, the government has approved emergency reconstruction aid amounting to 10 billion pesos. Images from local media depicted flooded businesses, and reports of looting emerged as the situation escalated.
Rescue operations began with the evacuation of patients from Jose Penna hospital, with staff risking their safety to carry infants to safer grounds. The number of evacuees has decreased from a peak of 1,321 to 850 as of Saturday, indicating ongoing recovery efforts. Meanwhile, additional rainstorms affected nearby areas, including Mar del Plata and Buenos Aires, although the latter experienced no significant damage.
In summary, the catastrophic rainstorm in Bahia Blanca, Argentina has led to tragic loss of life and extensive destruction, highlighting the city’s vulnerability to severe weather events. With ongoing rescue and recovery efforts, the government has committed significant resources to assist those affected. The incident underscores the critical need for improved disaster preparedness in regions prone to such climatic challenges.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
