Bahía Blanca faced severe flooding and destruction due to a rainstorm, prompting evacuations of families and patients from hospitals. Over 270mm of rain fell, causing widespread power outages and infrastructure damage. Authorities have declared a red alert, advising residents to seek shelter and halt all activities.
On Friday morning, the coastal city of Bahía Blanca experienced severe flooding and destruction due to a fierce storm that began around 3:40 AM local time. This led to the evacuation of families and newborns from a neonatal unit as flooded streets and collapsing asphalt became immediate consequences of the torrential downpour.
The storm released over 270 millimeters of rain within four hours, resulting in widespread electricity outages affecting a significant portion of the city, which houses over 350,000 residents and one of Argentina’s main ports. Reports confirm flooding in key facilities, including the Hospital Interzonal General de Agudos “Dr. José Penna,” necessitating emergency evacuations of staff and patients.
Evacuations were performed by medical personnel, with the assistance of the Army, as images circulated showing nurses carrying infants from the flooded neonatal ward. Despite no reported casualties, at least 40 households were evacuated, with the mayor’s office stating, “A large part of the city is impassable. Until the peak rainfall lasts, only heavy machinery can be mobilised.”
Bahía Blanca remains under a red alert from meteorological services, cautioning that rainfall is expected to persist. In response, schools have canceled classes and public transport has been suspended, urging residents to seek shelter. The mayor’s office has declared a complete halt to all activities until further notice to ensure public safety during this weather emergency.
Bahía Blanca’s history includes previous climatic adversities, with the last significant catastrophe occurring in December 2023, where a windstorm resulted in 13 fatalities and considerable infrastructural damage.
The severe storm in Bahía Blanca has caused extensive flooding and necessary evacuations, particularly affecting the Hospital Interzonal General de Agudos. With significant rainfall leading to widespread power outages and impassable streets, local authorities have declared a red alert and halted all public activities. The city’s challenging history with weather-related disasters highlights the urgency of addressing these climatic threats.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
