Deadly Bahia Blanca Floods Kill 16: Argentina has declared three days of national mourning following catastrophic floods in Bahia Blanca, which have killed at least 16 people and displaced thousands. The disaster, considered the worst flooding in years, has left the city in devastation, with fears that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue.
Bahia Blanca Floods Kill 16, Leaving a Trail of Destruction
The torrential rains struck Bahia Blanca on Friday, unleashing a year’s worth of rainfall in just hours. Streets were transformed into raging rivers, sweeping away homes, vehicles, and even people. Mayor Federico Susbielles confirmed the fatalities on social media, warning that “there are likely to be more victims.”
Emergency teams remain on high alert as they search for those still missing. Among the tragic cases, two young sisters, aged 1 and 5, were carried away by the currents after seeking refuge on a van’s roof with their mother. The tragedy has sent shockwaves across the country, prompting national and international reactions.
Government Responds to Bahia Blanca Floods Crisis with Emergency Aid
President Javier Milei’s administration has pledged 10 billion pesos ($9.2 million) in emergency aid to help affected residents rebuild their lives. The government has also deployed rescue teams, military personnel, and medical staff to assist with evacuation and relief efforts.
“All areas of the national government will remain dedicated to assisting the victims in this moment of sorrow for all Argentines,” read an official statement from the president’s office.
Argentina’s football legend Lionel Messi also expressed his condolences on Instagram, offering his support to those affected by the tragedy.
Hospitals Evacuated as Bahia Blanca Floods Worsen
One of the hardest-hit facilities was the Jose Penna Hospital, a major healthcare center in Bahia Blanca. Rising floodwaters forced authorities to evacuate critical patients, including newborns from the neonatal unit. Medical staff were seen carrying fragile infants through knee-deep water to ensure their safety.
The city’s power supply was partially cut off to prevent electrocution risks, further complicating rescue operations. Emergency responders used inflatable boats to transport stranded residents to safety.
Meteorologists Warn of More Rain After Deadly Bahia Blanca Floods
Weather experts have attributed the severe flooding to climate change, with extreme weather patterns becoming more frequent in Argentina. According to Buenos Aires Province Security Minister Javier Alonso, the city recorded over 400 millimeters (15 inches) of rain—an unprecedented event.
“The biggest storm in Bahia Blanca was in 1930, with 175 millimeters. This storm was nearly three times worse,” Alonso stated.
Meteorological services have warned that more heavy rains could hit Bahia Blanca in the coming days, prompting officials to maintain emergency alerts and reinforce drainage systems.
Survivors Share Harrowing Experiences of Bahia Blanca Floods Disaster
Residents have described the floods as a “wall of water” that engulfed entire neighborhoods within minutes. Flavia Viera Romero, a local resident, recounted the terrifying moment she had to rescue her children.
“It was raining, and suddenly, we saw water rushing into the street. A meter-and-a-half-high wave entered my house, and we barely escaped,” she told LN+ news channel.
Many families sought shelter on rooftops or climbed onto trees to avoid being swept away. The Argentine coast guard used inflatable boats to rescue those stranded, while helicopters were deployed for aerial search operations.
Bahia Blanca Floods Add to the City’s History of Climate Disasters
This is not the first time Bahia Blanca has suffered from extreme weather. In December 2023, a devastating windstorm killed 13 people, leaving the city in ruins. The latest floods have only added to the region’s climate woes, highlighting the urgent need for better infrastructure and disaster preparedness.
Environmental experts argue that stronger early warning systems, improved drainage networks, and urban planning reforms are necessary to prevent future catastrophes.
Argentina’s National Mourning After Bahia Blanca Floods and the Road to Recovery
As Argentina mourns the victims of the Bahia Blanca floods, the nation is also rallying to support those affected. Donations, rescue operations, and government aid are being mobilized to assist the displaced and rebuild the devastated city.
“We stand together in this difficult time. Bahia Blanca will rise again,” Mayor Susbielles assured residents.
With ongoing relief efforts, Argentina hopes to mitigate the long-term impact of this disaster and prevent such tragedies in the future.
