Record rainfall in Bahía Blanca on March 7, 2025, led to severe flooding, resulting in 10 deaths and evacuating over 1,300 residents. The storm brought 320 mm (12.6 inches) of rain in just four hours. Emergency services are engaged in rescue and recovery efforts amid widespread disruptions to infrastructure and public services.
On March 7, 2025, Bahía Blanca in Buenos Aires Province faced unprecedented rainfall, resulting in severe flooding that claimed at least 10 lives. This extreme weather event has led to the evacuation of over 1,300 residents from the city, which has a population of approximately 336,000. The rainfall peaked at 320 mm (12.6 inches) within just four hours, surpassing the previous record of 167.6 mm (6.6 inches) set in 1933.
In light of the disaster, the National Integrated Risk Management System (SINAGIR) issued a Red Alert for the city, deploying federal forces to aid local authorities in managing the crisis. Rescue operations are ongoing, as officials remain vigilant about the potential for additional casualties.
Four evacuation centers have been established to shelter displaced families, and authorities are actively updating the list of evacuees as communication systems are restored in the affected regions. Critical infrastructure, including the Dr. José Penna Hospital, has suffered significant impacts, prompting the evacuation of its neonatology wing.
The Army is facilitating the transfer of patients to other facilities using boats due to disrupted transport services. Public services, including schools, public transportation, and local airports, have been suspended. Authorities are enforcing power outages in flood-stricken areas to prevent electrical hazards and are advising residents against using electrical appliances during this crisis.
Efforts to mitigate the flooding’s effects are being coordinated by civil defense teams alongside local and provincial authorities, the Army, and the Navy. The Buenos Aires Province Government Minister, Carlos Bianco, labeled the situation a “tragedy” and emphasized ongoing communication with the mayor of Bahía Blanca.
The record rainfall in Bahía Blanca on March 7, 2025, has resulted in significant loss of life and extensive evacuations. The situation remains critical as rescue operations continue and infrastructure suffers severe disruption. Emergency services, including federal forces, are working tirelessly to support affected residents in this unprecedented event.
Original Source: watchers.news