Bahía Blanca experienced severe flooding and evacuations due to a rainstorm on Friday, with over 270 millimeters of rain falling in less than four hours. Hospitals were affected, prompting emergency evacuations. The city remains under a red alert as public safety measures have been implemented amid ongoing rainfall.
Early Friday morning, Bahía Blanca faced severe flooding and destruction due to a violent rainstorm, prompting the evacuation of families and newborns from a neonatal unit. The storm commenced at approximately 3:40 a.m. local time, resulting in flooded streets, damage to infrastructure, and collapsing asphalt. Authorities have not yet confirmed any casualties related to the incident.
Reports indicate that the storm unleashed over 270 millimeters of rain within a four-hour span, leading to widespread power outages affecting significant areas of the coastal city, which is home to over 350,000 residents and one of Argentina’s principal ports. The rainfall severely impacted the Hospital Interzonal General de Agudos “Dr. José Penna,” necessitating the emergency evacuation of staff and patients amid waterlogged corridors.
Television footage captured the urgent evacuation efforts, showing medical personnel carrying newborns to safety. In a statement, the Buenos Aires Province government reported, “Patients are being transferred from the Hospital Penna with the help of the Army while the damage is still being assessed.” Although municipal authorities have not reported any casualties, it has been noted that at least 40 households were evacuated due to unsafe conditions.
The mayor’s office stated, “A large part of the city is impassable. Until the peak rainfall lasts, only heavy machinery can be mobilised.” The city’s situation has prompted a red alert from the meteorological service, indicating ongoing rainfall. Consequently, schools have suspended classes, public transportation has ceased operations, and residents have been urged to find shelter.
In light of the emergency, the Bahía Blanca Municipality announced a complete cessation of all activities until further notice, emphasizing the need to ensure residents’ safety during this crisis. Bahía Blanca has a history of climate-related disasters, with the last significant event occurring in December 2023, resulting in fatalities and substantial damage to infrastructure.
The severe storm that struck Bahía Blanca resulted in significant flooding, necessitating the evacuation of vulnerable populations, including newborns from a hospital. With substantial rainfall exceeding 270 millimeters in a short duration, the city faced widespread power outages and infrastructure damage. Authorities have declared a red alert, and activities have been suspended to safeguard residents during this emergency.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
