Bahía Blanca, Argentina, has been devastated by severe flooding after receiving excessive rainfall, resulting in 13 deaths and hundreds displaced. Two young girls are missing, with many fatalities occurring in vehicles trapped by rising waters. The government faces criticism for its slow response, illustrating the urgent need for improved climate preparedness and community education.
Argentina’s Bahía Blanca has experienced catastrophic flooding after receiving a year’s worth of rainfall in just a few hours, leading to 13 fatalities and displacing hundreds of residents. Authorities reported two missing young girls, aged four and one, who may have been swept away by the floodwaters. Emergency infrastructure has been severely hindered as hospitals and neighborhoods succumbed to submerged conditions that left many areas isolated and without power.
Officials confirmed that the death toll increased from 10 to 13, indicating further casualties might emerge in the city of 350,000, located approximately 600km from Buenos Aires. Reportedly, many fatalities occurred as victims became trapped in vehicles due to swiftly rising water levels. The relentless downpour, which initiated early Friday, resulted in over 40cm of rain falling within just eight hours, effectively matching the city’s annual average.
Tensions escalated during a visit from National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich and Defense Minister Luis Petri, as residents expressed anger over the delayed government response amidst the crisis. Locals confronted Bullrich with calls to enter the flood, illustrating their frustration over perceived neglect.
Environmental Policy Director Andrea Dufourg representative commented that the extreme weather event showcases clear indications of climate change, urging for improved preparations and education for citizens in anticipation of such natural disasters. The number of evacuees has decreased from a peak of 1,321 to approximately 850, as indicated by the mayor’s office.
The extreme flooding in Bahía Blanca showcases the severe impact of climate-related weather events, resulting in loss of life and significant infrastructure damage. Government response has faced criticism, highlighting the importance of emergency preparedness and community education regarding climate risks. This disaster serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust early warning systems to mitigate future climatic threats.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
