Bahia Blanca faced catastrophic flooding due to unprecedented rainfall, resulting in at least ten deaths and over a thousand evacuations. The storm led to the closure of the airport and power outages amid rescue efforts for affected residents, with significant emergency aid provided by the national government. This disaster follows a troubling history of climate-related incidents in the region.
On Friday, torrential rains in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, resulted in at least ten fatalities and over a thousand evacuations. The continuous rainfall led to widespread flooding, affecting homes, hospitals, and infrastructure within the city of 350,000 residents. Emergency powers were activated after more than 400 millimeters (15 inches) of rain fell in a short span, equivalent to the city’s typical annual rainfall, termed as “something unprecedented” by officials.
Mayor Federico Susbielles reported that 1,321 individuals were evacuated, including patients from the Jose Penna hospital, which required immediate evacuation due to flooding. The national government has allocated approximately 10 billion pesos (around 9.2 million dollars) for emergency assistance. The sheer volume of rain surpassed historical weather records, with security minister Javier Alonso noting this storm was almost three times more severe than the largest storm recorded in 1930.
Airport operations in Bahia Blanca have been suspended indefinitely, and power outages were implemented to prevent electrical hazards. The provincial government dispatched helicopters, canoes, ambulances, and trucks with essential supplies to aid the affected residents. The coast guard also contributed to rescue operations using inflatable boats.
Residents experienced the flood’s rapid onset, with reports of water levels rising dramatically within their homes. One resident, Flavia Viera Romero, described a desperate evacuation situation as her home was inundated with water reaching 1.5 meters. Emergency services remain alert for ongoing weather threats as floodwaters continue to challenge recovery efforts in the city.
Historic data reveals Bahia Blanca’s vulnerability to climate disasters, further emphasized by previous events, such as a December 2023 windstorm that left 13 dead and caused severe destruction.
The floods in Bahia Blanca highlight the devastating impact of extreme weather events on urban areas. With ten confirmed deaths and a substantial number of evacuations, the city’s infrastructure faces significant challenges. The historical context of climate disasters in Bahia Blanca underscores the urgency for improved disaster preparedness and responsiveness to safeguard residents against future occurrences.
Original Source: thesun.my
