Severe Storm Leads to Flooding and Evacuations in Bahía Blanca

Bahía Blanca experienced severe flooding early Friday, forcing evacuations, including from a neonatal ward. Over 270 mm of rain fell within four hours, disrupting infrastructure and leaving many areas without power. Emergency services are actively responding amidst continuing rainfall, while a complete halt of local activities has been ordered.

Early Friday morning, Bahía Blanca faced intense flooding and damage following a severe storm, leading to mass evacuations, including from a neonatal unit. The rainstorm commenced at approximately 3:40 AM local time, resulting in widespread flooding of streets and hospitals, combined with failing infrastructure.

Reports indicate that over 270 millimeters of rain fell within four hours, impacting one of Argentina’s primary coastal cities, which houses more than 350,000 residents and a significant port. The heavy rainfall knocked out electricity across extensive areas, complicating emergency response efforts.

The Hospital Interzonal General de Agudos “Dr. José Penna” was particularly affected, with floodwaters inundating critical areas and necessitating the urgent evacuation of staff and patients, including several newborns. Emergency services, supported by the Army, aided in transferring patients as officials assessed the damage.

While municipal authorities have reported no casualties, local media stated that at least 40 households were evacuated. The mayor’s office of Bahía Blanca warned that many parts of the city are currently impassable, and access is only possible via heavy machinery during peak rainfall.

The meteorological service has issued a red alert for the area, predicting continued rainfall, prompting school closures and a suspension of public transportation. Residents are being advised to find shelter as a precaution. The mayor’s office has declared a complete halt to all local activities until further notice to ensure public safety.

The recent storm in Bahía Blanca has caused significant flooding and damage, leading to evacuations, particularly from a neonatal unit. With extensive rainfall overwhelming local infrastructure and causing power outages, authorities are monitoring the situation closely. The city’s history of climate-related disasters amplifies the urgency as officials work to ensure the safety of residents amidst continuous weather alerts.

Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar