Bahia Blanca, Argentina, was devastated by a storm that unleashed a year’s worth of rain in hours, resulting in 13 fatalities and extensive flooding. Authorities are investigating missing persons and challenges in recovery efforts, particularly concerning public discontent with their response. The event has been linked to climate change, emphasizing the need for improved preparedness.
Argentina’s port city of Bahia Blanca has faced a devastating storm that resulted in a year’s worth of rainfall within a few hours. This catastrophe, described by authorities as having “destroyed” the city, has led to 13 fatalities and forced hundreds of residents to evacuate their homes. The storm’s aftermath has transformed neighborhoods into islands and inundated hospital facilities.
Minister of National Security Patricia Bullrich emphasized the extensive damage, noting that the number of casualties increased from 10 to 13 as rescue efforts continued. The city, home to approximately 350,000 people and located 600 kilometers southwest of Buenos Aires, may see further casualties, with reports indicating that two young girls are missing, potentially swept away by the floodwaters.
The torrential downpour began on Friday morning and resulted in over 40 centimeters of rain in just eight hours—equating to the annual rainfall for Bahia Blanca, according to Buenos Aires Minister of Security Javier Alonso. He remarked, “This is unprecedented,” underscoring the severity of the situation.
Tensions escalated over the weekend as officials attempted to visit affected neighborhoods. Residents expressed frustration over the delayed response, demanding the ministers should have visited the area sooner. This outcry manifested in confrontations where angry locals urged Bullrich to experience the horrendous conditions firsthand.
Environmental policy expert Andrea Dufourg cited this extreme weather as evidence of climate change, predicting similar events in the future. She stressed the importance of preparing cities, educating residents, and implementing effective early warning systems to mitigate impact.
The latest reports indicate that the number of evacuees has decreased from a peak of 1,321 to 850 as recovery efforts continue. Authorities maintain a vigilant approach, acknowledging the ongoing challenges posed by severe weather conditions.
The storm in Bahia Blanca resulted in catastrophic outcomes, including significant loss of life and widespread destruction. Officials are confronted with ongoing recovery challenges and public discontent, highlighting the necessity for improved emergency preparedness and responses to extreme weather events. As authorities assess the situation, the event stands as a stark reminder of the implications of climate change and the urgency for societal adaptation.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
