Historic Flooding in Bahía Blanca Claims Lives and Displaces Residents

Bahía Blanca faced devastating floods on March 7, 2025, due to record rainfall, resulting in 10 fatalities and over 1,300 evacuations. The storm’s rainfall of 320 mm in four hours exceeded previous records from 1933. Emergency responses are underway, and the government has mobilized resources to assist affected residents and restore critical infrastructure.

On March 7, 2025, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires Province, experienced catastrophic flooding due to unprecedented rainfall, resulting in at least 10 fatalities and the evacuation of over 1,300 residents. The storm delivered a staggering 320 mm (12.6 inches) of rain in just four hours, surpassing the previous record of 167.6 mm (6.6 inches) set in 1933.

In response to the devastation, the National Integrated Risk Management System (SINAGIR) declared a Red Alert for the area, mobilizing federal support to assist local officials. Rescue operations are actively ongoing, with officials warning that more fatalities may be confirmed as assessments continue.

Four evacuation centers have been established to support displaced individuals, with lists being updated as connectivity improves in affected regions. Key infrastructure, including Dr. José Penna Hospital, has been heavily damaged, necessitating the evacuation of its neonatology wing and the Army’s assistance in transferring patients to other facilities.

Public services in Bahía Blanca have been severely disrupted, resulting in the closure of schools, transportation services, and the local airport. To prevent electrical hazards, power outages have been instituted in flooded areas, and residents are cautioned against using electrical appliances or attempting to clear floodwaters.

Emergency operations are being coordinated by civil defense teams alongside municipal and provincial authorities, as well as military units. Buenos Aires Province Government Minister Carlos Bianco referred to the floods as “a tragedy,” emphasizing ongoing communication between state officials and the city mayor.

The catastrophic rainfall in Bahía Blanca, which resulted in historic flooding, has led to a humanitarian crisis with significant loss of life and widespread infrastructure damage. Ongoing rescue efforts and coordination among various governmental agencies highlight the urgency and severity of the situation. The community’s resilience will be crucial as recovery and support systems are established in the aftermath of this disaster.

Original Source: watchers.news