Bahía Blanca is once again on high alert as the Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN) has issued a yellow alert for intense storms. This warning came just ten days after the city dealt with significant flooding, which resulted in tragic consequences.
Starting Monday, March 17, 2025, at 14:00, the Municipalidad de Bahía Blanca suspended all activities amid fears of severe weather. Authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant, as conditions are expected to worsen during the afternoon and evening.
Officials announced via social media platforms, "The Municipio disposes the suspension of all activities from 14:00 until the lifting of the yellow alert issued by the SMN." This suspension applies to both school activities and public transport, which will halt operations effective the same time.
The current alert indicates the possibility of heavy rainfall accumulation between 15 and 40 mm and the risk of hail. Wind gusts could reach as high as 70 km/h, presenting additional dangers for residents still recovering from the recent deluge.
City officials emphasized the need for preventive measures due to the poor condition of some roadways and the inadequacy of the drainage systems still being repaired. A spokesperson for the city’s emergency committee reassured the public, stating, "We transmit calm to the population and clarify the measure is based on circulation restrictions, taking account of the conditions of some paths, which remain weak, and the drainage system has not fully recovered."
To facilitate effective emergency response, the Comité de Emergencias will convene at 14:30 local time at the Centro de Monitoreo. This proactive measure aims to allocate resources and provide timely assistance if necessary.
Alongside the precautions for the storm, local health officials have reported on the concerning air quality issues resulting from flood recovery dust. Residents, particularly vulnerable populations including children and the elderly, are advised to wear masks, avoid outdoor activities, and keep windows closed.
Local councils are also implementing measures for community support, including 55 food distribution points and 47 community wardrobes to assist those still displaced. Currently, 43 individuals remain evacuated as they seek safe shelter from potential storms.
Residents have been advised to maintain safety by adhering to precautions such as not discarding garbage, removing any objects obstructing water drainage, and staying away from unstable trees and power lines. City officials have repeatedly stressed the importance of heeding these warnings since the rain-induced events this month.
The yellow alert has consequences beyond Bahía Blanca, extending to districts like Coronel Dorrego, Villa María, and Monte Hermoso. Weather forecasts predict improvement from 19:00 on this day, with no significant weather phenomena expected from 21:00 onward.
Despite the challenging circumstances, the community of Bahía Blanca has shown resilience through the recovery from prior flooding. Local officials have also highlighted the efforts underway to restore safety and normalcy for its residents, assuring the public of their commitment to preparedness and prompt response amid environmental challenges.
Community leaders ask for residents' cooperation to follow updates through official channels to stay informed and safe. The town's strength lies within its unity and commitment to ensuring safety for all.
