Sat Mar 08 22:39:28 UTC 2025: ## Devastating Storm Pummels Argentina’s Bahia Blanca, Leaving 13 Dead and Hundreds Homeless
**Buenos Aires, Argentina – March 9, 2025** – The Argentine port city of Bahia Blanca has been ravaged by an unprecedented storm that dumped a year’s worth of rain in just eight hours, leaving 13 dead and hundreds displaced. The deluge, which began Friday morning, caused widespread flooding, turning neighborhoods into islands and submerging parts of the Jose Penna hospital. Dramatic footage showed medical staff evacuating babies to safety with the assistance of the army.
Authorities reported that two young girls, aged four and one, remain missing, feared swept away by the floodwaters. At least five victims perished on flooded roads, likely trapped in their vehicles. National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich described the city as “destroyed,” adding that the casualty count could rise further.
The storm delivered over 400 millimeters of rain, far exceeding the city’s annual average. Provincial security minister Javier Alonso called the event “unprecedented.” The ensuing chaos led to widespread power outages and reports of looting in flooded shops. The government has pledged 10 billion pesos ($9.2 million USD) in emergency reconstruction aid.
While the number of evacuees has decreased from a peak of 1,321 to 850, the city of 350,000 residents faces a long road to recovery. Bahia Blanca has experienced similar weather-related disasters in the past, including a storm in December 2023 that claimed 13 lives. While neighboring Mar del Plata experienced heavy rains and disruptions, Buenos Aires largely escaped major damage.
First Piper 