Mon Mar 10 09:29:09 UTC 2025: ## Argentina Declares National Mourning After Deadly Bahia Blanca Floods; $9.2M in Aid Pledged

**BUENOS AIRES** – Argentina is observing three days of national mourning following devastating flash floods in the port city of Bahia Blanca that have claimed at least 16 lives, with more feared missing. President Javier Milei announced the mourning period on Sunday, following torrential rains that dumped an estimated year’s worth of rainfall – 260 millimeters (10 inches) – in just hours on Friday.

The floods caused widespread devastation, with Mayor Federico Susbielles reporting $400 million in infrastructure damage. Among the victims are two young girls, aged one and five, confirmed by Buenos Aires Province Security Minister Javier Alonso. Mayor Susbielles warned that the death toll is likely to rise as search and rescue operations continue. The storm also left much of the surrounding coastal area without power.

In response to the crisis, the national government has pledged 10 billion pesos ($9.2 million USD) in financial aid to Bahia Blanca, a city of 300,000 people located south of Buenos Aires. Economy Minister Luis Caputo announced the aid package on X (formerly Twitter), stating that all levels of government are committed to assisting those affected by the tragedy. The presidency released a statement emphasizing the national government’s dedication to supporting victims during this difficult time.

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