Tragedy Strikes as Fierce Storm Claims 14 Lives in Eastern Argentina

Buenos Aires, Dec 18: A devastating storm wreaked havoc in eastern Argentina, claiming the lives of at least 14 individuals as it unleashed heavy rain and winds reaching speeds of 150 km/h, according to authorities.

The tempest made its initial landfall on December 16 in Bahia Blanca, a port city located approximately 570 km (355 miles) south of Buenos Aires. Its destructive path damaged structures and caused power outages before advancing towards the capital city on Sunday, as reported by the BBC.

Authorities revealed that following its impact on Bahia Blanca, the storm resulted in the collapse of a sports center’s roof during a roller skating competition, resulting in the tragic deaths of 13 people. Additionally, 14 individuals sustained injuries, some of whom were trapped beneath the debris.

An orange weather alert, signifying a significant threat to life and property, remained in effect in parts of Buenos Aires province.

On Sunday, a woman lost her life in the town of Moreno, a suburb of Bahia Blanca, when she was struck by a falling tree branch.

Newly-appointed President Javier Milei and several ministers traveled to Bahia Blanca on Sunday to assess the extent of the damage. The government, as per Milei’s office, is actively collaborating with provincial and municipal authorities to provide assistance to the victims and manage the aftermath.

Furthermore, the storm claimed two lives in neighboring Uruguay.