Severe Storm Causes Catastrophic Flooding in Bahía Blanca, Argentina

On March 7, 2025, Bahía Blanca, Argentina, was hit by a severe storm, bringing over 270 mm of rain in four hours, causing widespread flooding and necessitating evacuations. Areas of the city were submerged, leading to power disruptions, road impassability, and emergency shelters for over 680 displaced residents. The National Meteorological Service has issued ongoing severe weather warnings, predicting more rain and strong winds.

On March 7, 2025, Bahía Blanca, located in Buenos Aires Province, experienced an extreme storm that resulted in an unprecedented rainfall of over 270 mm (10.6 inches) within just four hours. This intense precipitation triggered severe flooding, leading to the evacuation of several neighborhoods and the mobilization of emergency services to assist those in need.

The downpour commenced at approximately 03:40 local time (06:40 UTC), swiftly submerging large areas of the coastal city. Critical infrastructure, including the neonatal unit at Hospital Interzonal General de Agudos “Dr. José Penna,” was affected, requiring medical personnel to carry newborns to safety with the aid of the Army.

In total, at least 40 households needed to be evacuated, and authorities disclosed that navigating the inundated streets would require heavy machinery. The city has remained under a Red Alert as additional rain is predicted. A complete halt of schools and public transportation has been enforced until further announcements are made.

Moreover, the Pampa region is also under a Red Alert due to increasing concerns over extreme weather events. Since March 2, central-eastern Argentina has been subjected to significant rainfall, exacerbating flooding across Buenos Aires Province. Tragically, one reported fatality has occurred in Berazategui as flooding continues to plague the area.

The floods have thus far forced over 680 individuals from their homes within the province. Emergency shelters have been set up to accommodate and support those displaced by this natural disaster. The adverse weather conditions have inflicted damage upon infrastructure, with reports indicating that at least 20 buildings were compromised due to floodwaters and related incidents.

The National Meteorological Service (SMN) issued various alerts for March 7, foreseeing extreme temperatures, severe storms, and dangerous wind conditions. Forecasts predict rainfall accumulation ranging from 50 to 100 mm (2 to 4 inches) along with wind gusts exceeding 80 km/h (50 mph), coupled with the potential for hail, posing additional risks to property and agriculture.

Additionally, the SMN has elevated storm alerts to an Orange Level along the Buenos Aires coastline. Officials have classified the storm risk in the Tandil area as extremely dangerous, signaling that heavy rains and strong winds are anticipated. Weather forecasts indicate that Bahía Blanca and its surrounding regions will continue to experience heavy rainfall for at least the next 72 hours.

The severe storm in Bahía Blanca has led to catastrophic flooding, necessitating urgent evacuations and assistance for numerous residents. With continued forecasts of heavy rain and dangerous conditions, the authorities have implemented comprehensive measures to ensure public safety. The devastating impacts on the community and local infrastructure emphasize the persistent challenges posed by extreme weather events in the region.

Original Source: watchers.news