Argentina has declared three days of national mourning following flash floods that have claimed 16 lives, with more individuals still missing. The floods originated from an extraordinary downpour in Bahia Blanca. The government has announced emergency reconstruction funding and emphasized support for victims, while environmental officials highlight climate change’s role in these disasters.
On Sunday, Argentina declared three days of national mourning following the tragic death of 16 individuals due to flash flooding, with additional persons still reported as missing. The floods occurred when an entire year’s worth of rainfall fell within just a few hours in Bahia Blanca, a significant port city in the southern part of Buenos Aires province, inundating neighborhoods with swift waters.
The heartbreaking situation is underscored by the disappearance of two young sisters, aged one and five, who were swept away while attempting to escape rising waters with their mother, who was rescued. Javier Alonso, the provincial security minister, confirmed this devastating news while divers continued to search for missing individuals amid the lingering floodwaters.
Bahia Blanca’s mayor, Federico Susbielles, declared an extensive $400 million in infrastructure damage stemming from the floods. He stated in a press conference, “There are 16 confirmed deaths, but there are likely to be more” as the search operations progressed. The storm also caused widespread power outages, emphasizing the state’s infrastructure challenges.
Argentinian President Javier Milei announced plans for national mourning that focuses on providing aid to victims, with an emergency reconstruction aid package amounting to 10 billion pesos ($9.2 million). He stated, “All areas of the national government will remain dedicated… to assisting the victims in this moment of sorrow for all Argentines.”
Football star Lionel Messi expressed his sympathies via Instagram, encouraging strength for those affected. Andrea Dufourg, an environmental official, attributed the extreme weather to climate change, insisting on the need to prepare cities for future occurrences and establish effective early warning systems.
Argentina is confronting the aftermath of devastating floods that have resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. The national mourning declaration illustrates the government’s response to this tragic event. With the acknowledgment of climate change effects and ongoing search efforts, the nation seeks to support affected families and mitigate future risks. Numerous public figures, including Lionel Messi, have extended their condolences, highlighting the collective sorrow felt across the country.
Original Source: www.news.com.au
