The recent flooding in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, has led to 16 confirmed deaths and two girls missing. Torrential rains exceeding annual averages inundated the city, causing over $400 million in damages. Search efforts for the missing sisters continue amidst widespread power outages and significant evacuation efforts, prompting government funding for reconstruction.
Heavy flooding in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, has tragically claimed 16 lives, with two young girls still missing. This catastrophic event occurred after torrential rain, equivalent to a year’s worth in a matter of hours, severely inundated neighborhoods and infrastructure, leading to substantial destruction and displacement. Over 1,000 people have been evacuated from their homes, and many roads have been rendered impassable.
Mayor Federico Susbielles reported infrastructure damages totaling approximately $400 million due to the relentless flooding. He expressed concern regarding the potential for more fatalities, stating, “there are 16 confirmed deaths, but there are likely to be more” as authorities continue their search for the missing girls.
Authorities revealed that the missing sisters, aged one and five, were on their mother’s van when they were swept away by floodwaters. Provincial security minister Javier Alonso confirmed ongoing search efforts in areas still submerged under more than a meter of water.
The storm not only caused loss of life but also left much of the coastal region without electricity. City officials suspended power due to the overwhelming water levels in the streets. In response to this disaster, the government has initiated emergency reconstruction aid amounting to 10 billion pesos, equivalent to $9.2 million.
Bahia Blanca is not unfamiliar with such disasters; a severe storm in December 2023 resulted in 13 fatalities and significant infrastructure damage. Historic weather events have raised concerns over the city’s vulnerability to similar occurrences in the future.
In conclusion, the flooding in Bahia Blanca has resulted in 16 confirmed deaths and the disappearance of two young girls, highlighting the devastating impact of extreme weather events. Authorities are continuing to search for the missing children while assessing the extensive economic damage and seeking government assistance for reconstruction efforts. This incident underscores the need for ongoing measures to address the increasing frequency of such weather-related disasters in the region.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
