Heavy rains in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, have resulted in 13 reported deaths, with missing individuals feared swept away. Over 400 mm of rain fell in eight hours, causing severe flooding and destruction, alongside widespread power outages. Evacuation numbers have decreased, but the city has faced similar disasters before, indicating a pattern of vulnerability to extreme weather.
On March 9, 2025, heavy rains in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, led to the fatalities of at least 13 individuals, with local reports indicating that two young girls, aged four and one, are missing, presumed lost to the floodwaters. The extensive flooding has resulted in hospital rooms being inundated, entire neighborhoods submerged, and significant power outages. “Bahia Blanca is destroyed,” stated Argentina’s National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, highlighting the disaster’s severity.
The torrential rain, which began early Friday, deposited over 400 millimeters (15.7 inches) of rain within eight hours, a total close to the city’s average annual precipitation. Provincial Security Minister Javier Alonso noted this catastrophic amount precipitated the flooding. The mayor’s office warns the death toll may continue to rise as assessments of the damage are still ongoing.
As of Saturday, the number of evacuees in Bahia Blanca decreased to 850 from a peak of 1,321. Emergency responders are currently evaluating the overall destruction. Bahia Blanca has faced similar catastrophic weather incidents before, including a 2023 storm that also resulted in 13 deaths and significant infrastructural damage, demonstrating a worrying trend in the region’s vulnerability to severe weather events.
The recent heavy rains in Bahia Blanca, Argentina, have led to tragic losses and significant infrastructural damage. With reports of missing individuals and potential for further casualties, the situation highlights the pressing risks of extreme weather. The consistent occurrence of severe storms in the region raises concerns about future preparedness and response to such disasters.
Original Source: www.wam.ae
