Argentina has declared three days of national mourning after flash floods resulted in 16 confirmed deaths, with ongoing rescue efforts. The flooding, caused by a year’s worth of rain falling in a short time, has led to extensive infrastructure damage valued at $400 million. Emergency aid has been authorized as the country grapples with the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events.
Argentina has declared three days of national mourning following the recent flash flooding that has resulted in a death toll rising to 16, with several individuals still unaccounted for. The deluge occurred when an entire year’s worth of rainfall fell within hours in and around Bahia Blanca, a significant port city located in the southern region of Buenos Aires province, leading to the inundation of many neighborhoods.
Tragically, the floods have deeply impacted the community, particularly with reports of two young sisters, aged one and five, who were swept away. Provincial security minister Javier Alonso confirmed their disappearance, stating the sisters were on a van roof with their mother to escape when a sudden surge of water separated them. Rescue efforts continue, with divers searching the area despite more than a meter of water still present.
The Mayor of Bahia Blanca, Federico Susbielles, disclosed during a press conference that the flooding has resulted in an estimated $400 million in infrastructure damage. He also indicated that the confirmed death toll may rise as search and recovery efforts progress.
The storm’s impact severely affected the region’s power supply, prompting city officials to suspend electricity in response to the flooding. Argentine President Javier Milei announced plans for a three-day period of national mourning and emphasized the commitment of the national government to assist affected victims.
In response to the crisis, the government has sanctioned emergency reconstruction assistance amounting to 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million). Argentine football icon Lionel Messi expressed his condolences via Instagram, extending strength to all those affected. Additionally, environmental official Andrea Dufourg remarked that the extreme weather event exemplifies the reality of climate change, urging for better preparation and education regarding such occurrences.
In summary, Argentina has taken significant steps to address the aftermath of the catastrophic flooding that claimed at least 16 lives and left several areas devastated. With a national mourning period declared, along with emergency funding for recovery, the government is prioritizing assistance for victims. Notable public figures have also expressed their support, underscoring the collective sorrow felt throughout the nation and the call for preparedness in the face of climate change.
Original Source: www.swiowanewssource.com
