Bahia Blanca, Argentina, faced severe flooding resulting in 13 deaths and displacing hundreds as a storm dumped a year’s worth of rain in mere hours. The storm, deemed unprecedented by officials, has prompted criticisms of government response and alarm over climate change. Evacuations, including that of a hospital, marked the continuing struggles of the affected community.
Bahia Blanca, a port city in Argentina, has experienced catastrophic flooding that has resulted in the deaths of 13 individuals and displaced hundreds. Officials reported that the region received a year’s worth of rain within a few hours during a storm that struck on Friday. This intense deluge led to extensive flooding, submerging hospitals and transforming neighborhoods into islands without access to power.
Authorities, including National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, have characterized Bahia Blanca as being “destroyed” by the storm, with the number of confirmed fatalities increasing from 10 to 13 by Saturday. The mayor’s office warns that further casualties may be expected, as two young girls aged four and one remain missing, reportedly swept away by floodwaters.
The flood conditions worsened rapidly, trapping individuals in vehicles as water rose dramatically on flooded roads. The severe rainfall began early Friday morning, aggregating nearly 400 millimeters (15.7 inches) in just eight hours, almost matching Bahia Blanca’s annual average. Provincial security minister Javier Alonso labeled the event as “unprecedented,” marking a dramatic weather event.
As tensions arose, Minister Bullrich and Defense Minister Luis Petri faced criticism from residents during their visitation to the affected neighborhoods, with many locals expressing their frustrations regarding governmental response times. Meanwhile, environmental official Andrea Dufourg described the situation as a clear demonstration of the effects of climate change, advocating for preparedness in urban planning and citizen education.
As evacuation efforts unfolded, the Jose Penna hospital was forced to relocate patients due to flooding, with nurses visibly aiding newborns to safety. Although significant damage occurred, some residents remained optimistic, with doctor Eduardo Seminara stating, “I’m not complaining, we didn’t lose any lives.”
Emergency reconstruction aid amounting to 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million) has been authorized by the government to facilitate recovery efforts. While Bahia Blanca faced severe challenges, the resort town of Mar del Plata also experienced rainfall, leading officials to suspend public activities to ensure safety. Thankfully, Buenos Aires endured the storm with minimal repercussions.
The harrowing storm in Bahia Blanca has resulted in a tragic death toll and extensive displacement of individuals. The rapidity of rainfall has shocked officials and underscored the impending threats posed by climate change. Recovery efforts are underway, supported by emergency funds, though the prospects for the community’s rebuilding efforts remain formidable. The event highlights the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and effective infrastructure to mitigate future occurrences.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
