Argentina has declared three days of national mourning after flash floods in Bahia Blanca resulted in at least 16 deaths. The government is offering support to victims while search operations for the missing continue. Mayor Susbielles estimates damages at $400 million. Experts are calling for enhanced disaster preparedness amid escalating extreme weather threats.
Argentina has entered a period of three days of national mourning due to severe flash floods in Bahia Blanca that resulted in the deaths of at least 16 individuals, with fears that more casualties may arise. The announcement came from President Javier Milei’s office, which emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting victims of this tragedy.
On Friday, Bahia Blanca experienced an unprecedented rainfall event, receiving around 260 millimeters in just a few hours, which led to extensive flooding and widespread power outages. Entire neighborhoods were submerged, and among those lost were two young sisters, aged one and five, who were tragically swept away while seeking refuge with their mother on a van’s roof.
Search and rescue operations are still ongoing as authorities work to locate missing persons, raising concerns that the confirmed death toll may increase. Mayor Federico Susbielles of Bahia Blanca remarked that the financial impact of the flooding could exceed $400 million, noting that this incident is one of the city’s most severe disasters in history.
“There are 16 confirmed deaths, but there are likely to be more,” Mayor Susbielles stated on X. In response to the crisis, the Argentine government has allocated 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million) for emergency assistance.
In solidarity with the affected community, football star Lionel Messi conveyed his condolences on social media. Experts caution that this incident underscores the growing dangers of extreme weather conditions, advocating for improvements in early warning systems and climate resilience strategies.
The tragedy in Bahia Blanca serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impacts of extreme weather events. With 16 confirmed deaths and a significant economic toll, Argentina’s national mourning reflects the gravity of the situation. Immediate government support and calls for improved disaster preparedness highlight the need for stronger climate resilience measures to mitigate future risks.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
