Devastating Floods Claim Lives and Displace Thousands in Bahía Blanca, Argentina
Severe flooding hit Bahía Blanca, Argentina, on March 7, 2025, after record rains caused at least 10 fatalities and the evacuation of over 1,300 residents. The National Integrated Risk Management System declared a Red Alert and federal forces are providing assistance. Critical infrastructure, including hospitals, has been severely impacted, and public services are disrupted. Emergency efforts are ongoing as the city faces significant challenges.
On March 7, 2025, Bahía Blanca, located in Buenos Aires Province, experienced catastrophic flooding due to unprecedented rainfall, leading to the deaths of at least 10 individuals. This event is marked as the worst rainfall since 1933, with the city receiving up to 320 millimeters (12.6 inches) of rain in just four hours, significantly surpassing the previous record of 167.6 mm (6.6 inches). The population of Bahía Blanca is approximately 336,000, with over 1,300 residents evacuated due to the floods.
In response to the situation, the National Integrated Risk Management System (SINAGIR), functioning under the Ministry of National Security, issued a Red Alert for the area. Federal forces have been dispatched to assist local officials in managing the crisis. Rescue operations are actively taking place, and authorities are monitoring the situation for potential further casualties as they continue coordinating their response.
Evacuation centers have been established to provide relief to displaced families. As power outages are enforced in certain flooded areas to mitigate electrical hazards, residents are warned against using electrical appliances or attempting to clear the streets. The floods have specifically affected crucial infrastructure, including Dr. José Penna Hospital, necessitating the evacuation of its neonatology wing and the transfer of patients by Army boats.
Public services in Bahía Blanca remain significantly disrupted, with schools, transportation systems, and the airport all closed as the city grapples with this natural disaster. Civil defense teams, alongside municipal and provincial authorities, the Army, and the Navy, are working together diligently to lessen the impact of the flooding. Buenos Aires Province Government Minister, Carlos Bianco, characterized this tragedy as profound and assured that officials maintain constant communication with the city’s mayor.
The severe flooding in Bahía Blanca has resulted in significant loss of life and disruption to public services, making it the most impactful rainfall event since 1933. With ongoing rescue operations and a coordinated response from various authorities, efforts are underway to support affected families and restore essential services. The situation remains critical as officials continue to assess the impact and provide assistance to the community.
Original Source: watchers.news
