Bahía Blanca experienced record-breaking rainfall on March 7, 2025, resulting in severe flooding that claimed at least 10 lives and forced over 1,300 evacuations. With rain reaching 320 mm in a few hours, the flooding has severely disrupted public services, prompted emergency response initiatives, and resulted in significant infrastructure damage.
On March 7, 2025, Bahía Blanca, located in Buenos Aires Province, experienced unprecedented rainfall that resulted in severe flooding, leading to the tragic loss of at least 10 lives. This event marked a significant milestone as it represents the heaviest rainfall recorded in the area since 1933, with precipitation levels reaching up to 320 mm (12.6 inches) in just four hours. This record surpasses the previous high of 167.6 mm (6.6 inches) set on March 17, 1933, highlighting the storm’s extraordinary severity.
The intense rainfall led to the evacuation of more than 1,300 residents in Bahía Blanca, a city with a population of approximately 336,000. The National Integrated Risk Management System (SINAGIR), part of the Ministry of National Security, has declared a Red Alert for the region and is coordinating with federal forces to assist local authorities amid ongoing rescue operations. There is a continued risk to life, with authorities unable to rule out further fatalities.
Authorities have established four evacuation centers to shelter displaced families as connectivity begins to be restored in the affected areas. Critical infrastructure has suffered significant damage; Dr. José Penna Hospital’s neonatology wing required evacuation, and the Army has been engaged in transferring patients to other healthcare facilities via boats.
Public services, including schools, public transport, and the local airport, are currently non-operational. To ensure safety, power disruptions are implemented in flood-affected regions to mitigate electrical hazards, and residents are cautioned against using electrical appliances or attempting to clear the impacted streets. Emergency response efforts are being coordinated by civil defense teams alongside municipal and provincial authorities, the Army, and the Navy.
Carlos Bianco, the Government Minister of Buenos Aires Province, has characterized the flooding as “a tragedy” and indicated that there is ongoing communication between government officials and the mayor of Bahía Blanca to address the situation effectively.
The catastrophic flooding in Bahía Blanca underscores the severe impact of extreme weather events on urban areas, highlighting the vulnerabilities present in infrastructure and emergency preparedness. Immediate response efforts are crucial in providing assistance to affected residents, while the declaration of a Red Alert emphasizes the need for coordinated action. Continued evaluations and support from federal forces are essential for the restoration of safety and services in the region.
Original Source: watchers.news
