Argentina has declared three days of national mourning after flash floods led to 16 confirmed deaths and significant infrastructure damage in Bahia Blanca. Emergency efforts are underway, with search operations continuing for missing individuals, including two young sisters. The government has authorized reconstruction aid while addressing the impacts of climate change as a factor in this disaster.
Argentina has initiated three days of national mourning following the rise in the flood death toll to 16, with additional individuals still unaccounted for. The floods, which occurred when an entire year’s worth of rain fell in mere hours, severely impacted Bahia Blanca, a strategic port city in Buenos Aires province, leading to inundation of entire neighborhoods. The situation is particularly tragic with reports of two young sisters, aged one and five, who were swept away after their mother attempted to escape floodwaters by climbing onto a van’s roof, although she was rescued.
Provincial security minister Javier Alonso confirmed the ongoing search efforts, noting that over a meter of water remains in the area despite divers’ attempts to locate the missing. Bahia Blanca’s mayor, Federico Susbielles, reported significant infrastructure damage amounting to $400 million, emphasizing the severity of the disaster. In a press conference, he asserted that while 16 deaths are confirmed, further casualties may be uncovered as search and rescue operations progress.
In the wake of the disaster, large portions of Bahia Blanca experienced power outages due to flooding, leading city officials to temporarily suspend electricity to mitigate risks. President Javier Milei’s office announced the forthcoming national mourning, although the exact start date was not provided. The presidency assured, “All areas of the national government will remain dedicated… to assisting the victims in this moment of sorrow for all Argentines.”
To aid recovery, the Argentine government has allocated 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million) for emergency reconstruction. Football icon Lionel Messi expressed his condolences via Instagram, stating his support for the families affected by this tragic event. Furthermore, Andrea Dufourg, director of environmental policy in Ituzaingo, commented on the floods being a stark representation of climate change, advocating for better preparation and citizen education to prevent future occurrences.
The catastrophic floods in Argentina have prompted national mourning as the death toll climbs and recovery efforts unfold. The severe weather event, exacerbated by climate change, has led to substantial infrastructure damage and highlighted the need for effective preparation and response systems. The tragic loss of life, particularly of the two young sisters, has resonated deeply within the community and sparked widespread expressions of sympathy from public figures. The government’s swift allocation of funds demonstrates urgency in addressing the aftermath of this disaster.
Original Source: www.swiowanewssource.com
