Bahía Blanca, Argentina, faced record-setting rainfall causing significant flooding and evacuations of at least 40 families. City Hall suspended all activities, urging residents to stay indoors. The Argentine National Meteorological Service issued alerts for continued rainfall, and a coordinated response involving security forces was initiated. The storm is anticipated to affect nearby areas, prompting further precautionary measures.
Bahía Blanca, located in the Argentine Province of Buenos Aires, experienced an unprecedented storm resulting in record rainfall surpassing the previous historic measurement of 167.6 mm from 1933. The rainfall commenced around 4 a.m. and reached 220 mm, leading to significant flooding, prompting the evacuation of at least 40 families, including newborns from a neonatal ward.
In response to the emergency, Bahía Blanca’s City Hall mandated the suspension of all activities until further notice, which included school closures and the shutdown of public transportation and the airport. Citizens were urged to remain indoors for safety, especially to avoid loose cables and hazardous travel conditions.
Security Minister Patricia Bullrich coordinated relief efforts with the Coast Guard, Border Guard, and Federal Police, stating that a Unified Command was established to respond immediately. She confirmed, “We are firm, working tirelessly to assist, contain, and protect every neighbor in this disaster.”
The Argentine National Meteorological Service had issued an orange alert, projecting additional rainfall of 50-100 mm. Evacuation centers were arranged, and vehicles and boats from the Armed Forces were deployed to assist affected individuals. Defense Minister Luis Petri, alongside local authorities, supervised the response operations, noting the storm’s impact on Punta Alta, which houses the strategic Puerto Belgrano Naval Base.
The city, with a population of 336,574 according to the 2022 census, ranks among Argentina’s largest cities in both size and population. The storm later threatened Mar del Plata, prompting authorities there to cancel classes, sports events, and mass gatherings. Security Secretary Rodrigo Gonçalves reminded residents to avoid driving and secure outdoor items during the ongoing severe weather conditions.
The storm in Bahía Blanca has resulted in record rainfall, prompting widespread evacuations and a significant emergency response. Measures have been implemented to ensure the safety of residents, including the suspension of activities and deployment of emergency services. The continued threat to other nearby areas necessitates ongoing vigilance as authorities work tirelessly to manage the consequences of this unprecedented weather event.
Original Source: en.mercopress.com
