Bahia Blanca in Argentina has been severely impacted by torrential rains, resulting in at least ten deaths and over 1,000 evacuations. The city received over 400 millimeters of rain in just eight hours, causing critical flooding that necessitated hospital evacuations. Emergency services are mobilized to provide assistance and resources to the affected populations.
In Bahia Blanca, Argentina, at least ten fatalities have been reported, and over 1,000 individuals have been evacuated due to severe flooding from torrential rains. These rains, lasting for eight continuous hours, inundated homes and hospitals within the city, prompting officials to blackout power supplies to mitigate risk. The local hospital, Jose Penna, even required evacuation of patients as floodwaters surged dangerously high.
The city, home to around 350,000 residents and located approximately 600 kilometers south of Buenos Aires, experienced an unprecedented rainfall exceeding 400 millimeters (15 inches), equivalent to its annual average. According to Buenos Aires province security minister Javier Alonso, this storm surpassed any previously recorded in the area, being three times the magnitude of the relentless rainfall from 1930.
As the flood crisis unfolded, Bahia Blanca’s airport was shut down, and emergency measures were enacted by the provincial government. They dispatched helicopters and ambulances, while food, water, and essential equipment were transported in trucks to assist those affected. The coast guard also contributed by deploying inflatable boats for rescue missions.
Residents described the overwhelming force of the floodwaters. Flavia Viera Romero recounted her frightening experience, stating, “It was raining, and suddenly we saw the street was flooded. About a meter-and-a-half of water came into my house.” Stranded families were compelled to seek refuge, with some surviving in trucks, struggling against the destructive surge.
Sadly, Bahia Blanca has a history of devastating climate-related disasters, with previous windstorms causing significant loss of life and extensive property damage. As authorities continue to address the aftermath and potential for new storms, the city remains under alert, striving to support its beleaguered inhabitants.
The catastrophic flooding in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, has led to tragic loss of life, extensive evacuations, and severe destruction within the city. The unprecedented rainfall has overwhelmed local infrastructure and emergency services, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to climate-related disasters. Continued support and preparedness for future storms are crucial to aid recovery efforts and safeguard residents.
Original Source: www.livemint.com
