Argentina Declares Mourning After Flash Floods Claim 16 Lives in Bahia Blanca

Argentina has announced three days of national mourning following devastating flash floods in Bahia Blanca that claimed 16 lives. Authorities are continuing search efforts for missing individuals, including two young sisters. The floods resulted in extensive infrastructure damage estimated at $400 million, prompting emergency reconstruction funding. Officials highlight the incident as a consequence of climate change, calling for enhanced preparedness.

Argentina has declared three days of national mourning due to flash floods that resulted in 16 fatalities in Bahia Blanca. The floods occurred when an entire year’s worth of rainfall fell in a matter of hours, severely flooding neighborhoods. Tragically, two young girls, aged one and five, were swept away in the floods, prompting a search for more missing individuals.

The flash floods struck Bahia Blanca, a significant port city in southern Buenos Aires province, on Friday, causing widespread destruction. Provincial security minister Javier Alonso reported that the two girls had climbed onto a van’s roof with their mother to escape the waters but were tragically separated during a surge. Authorities continue to search for the girls while many areas remain inundated with over a meter of water.

Mayor Federico Susbielles indicated that the floodwaters resulted in approximately $400 million in infrastructure damages. He confirmed that while there are currently 16 confirmed deaths, there may be additional victims as rescue operations are underway. Power outages affected much of the coastal area, necessitating the suspension of electricity in the city due to the severe flooding.

Presidential office stated that President Javier Milei has called for three days of national mourning, although the start date has yet to be announced. The government is also mobilizing emergency reconstruction funds amounting to 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million) to aid recovery efforts. Argentine football star Lionel Messi expressed his condolences on social media, extending support to the affected families.

Environment official Andrea Dufourg highlighted that these extreme weather events exemplify climate change, urging a need for cities to prepare for future challenges. Previously, Bahia Blanca had experienced similar weather-related disasters, including a storm in December 2023 which led to the loss of 13 lives and extensive damage to infrastructure.

The unprecedented flooding in Bahia Blanca has led to a declared national mourning in Argentina as search efforts continue for missing persons. With severe infrastructure damage and significant fatalities, the event raises critical discussions on the impacts of climate change. The response from the government and citizens, including financial aid and expressions of support from public figures, underscores the tragedy’s profound effect on the nation.

Original Source: www.france24.com