Severe Flooding in Bahía Blanca Leaves Death and Destruction in Its Wake

BAHÍA BLANCA, Argentina — A powerful storm has wreaked havoc across Bahía Blanca, leaving at least 16 dead, 128 missing, and over 1,400 people displaced. Torrential rain, amounting to more than 350 millimeters in just a few hours, caused massive flooding that destroyed homes and critical infrastructure.

Local authorities reported that rescue teams are tirelessly working to find the missing, including sisters Delfina and Pilar Hecker, who were last seen during the violent storm. According to the province’s Minister of Security, Javier Alonso, a worker from Andreani held Pilar in his arms as they attempted to escape from rising waters. They were swept away when the vehicle was submerged by a powerful current.

“When the truck stopped, it started filling with water, forcing them to climb onto the hood and roof,” Alonso explained. “Unfortunately, a surge came, separating the mother from her daughters.” The search for the sisters continues as families and volunteers mobilize to aid those affected.

In the relief efforts, the Fundación Planeta Vivo shared updates on their social media, detailing how they are assisting animals impacted by the storm. “Some families are returning home to their pets, while others are finding animals injured and stressed,” they reported, underscoring the need for urgent care.

The National University of the South temporarily closed its donation center due to safety concerns over chemicals in flooded laboratories. Officials stressed the need for precautionary measures in light of the potential hazards present. The decision was made in coordination with specialized fire department personnel.

Amid the chaos, the flooding also affected local judicial buildings, with numerous documents at the federal oral criminal court submerged. Responding to the crisis, the Supreme Court of Buenos Aires announced a suspension of activities at the Bahía Blanca Judicial Department for the coming week.

Efforts to address the growing health concerns due to stagnant water are critical, with fears of possible disease outbreaks rising among the affected population. The mayor of Bahía Blanca, Federico Susbielles, expressed condolences to families of the deceased and praised the decision to cancel classes that could have saved lives.

As recovery continues, assistance is pouring in from various sources. A C-130 Hercules aircraft loaded with mattresses and blankets departed to aid the storm victims. “A second C-130 Hercules took off with necessary supplies for those affected by the storm,” Defense Minister Luis Petri announced on social media.

Residents like a 68-year-old retiree shared their harrowing experiences. “I think I lost everything,” she lamented as she recounted the devastation at her home in Ingeniero White. “This year has been terrifying.”