Argentina has declared three days of national mourning after flash floods led to 16 confirmed deaths. The floods, caused by an extraordinary amount of rain, have resulted in significant infrastructure damage and ongoing search efforts for missing individuals. The government is providing emergency aid and addressing the impacts of climate change on natural disasters.
Argentina has declared three days of national mourning following the recent flash floods that have claimed at least 16 lives, with several individuals still unaccounted for. The floods, which occurred on Friday, resulted from a year’s worth of rainfall falling within hours, severely affecting Bahia Blanca, a notable port city in Buenos Aires province. In affected neighborhoods, rising waters led to widespread devastation and loss.
Tragic accounts have emerged, including the disappearance of two young sisters, aged one and five. Javier Alonso, the provincial security minister, confirmed their mother’s rescue as they attempted to seek refuge on top of a van. Recovery efforts continue in areas still submerged under over a meter of water.
Bahia Blanca’s mayor, Federico Susbielles, reported significant damage to infrastructure, estimating the cost at $400 million. He mentioned, “There are 16 confirmed deaths, but there are likely to be more” as search and rescue operations progress in the difficult conditions.
The storm has also disrupted power access to many residents, prompting officials to suspend electricity due to excessive flooding. President Javier Milei’s office announced the declaration of national mourning, ensuring that governmental support continues for victims in this challenging time.
In light of the disaster, the government has allocated 10 billion pesos (approximately $9.2 million) for emergency reconstruction aid. Additionally, esteemed Argentine football player Lionel Messi expressed his condolences via Instagram, offering strength to the affected families during this sorrowful period.
Andrea Dufourg, a city environmental policy director, highlighted the floods as an evident manifestation of climate change and advocated for better preparation, education, and early warning systems in urban areas. Bahia Blanca has a history of weather-related calamities, having previously been struck by a deadly storm in December 2023 that left 13 people dead and caused extensive damage.
In summary, Argentina is mourning the loss of 16 lives due to recent catastrophic flooding in Bahia Blanca. The floods resulted from excessive rainfall and have caused significant infrastructure damage. Emergency measures, including reconstruction aid, are being implemented as the nation grapples with the immediate aftermath. The incident serves as a dire reminder of the impacts of climate change, emphasizing the need for preparedness and proactive measures against future natural disasters.
Original Source: www.swiowanewssource.com
