Argentina: Severe storm hits port city Bahía Blanca, 13 dead
What's the story
At least 13 people were killed in Argentina on Saturday after a violent storm tore through the port city of Bahía Blanca, The New York Times reported, citing officials.
The country's weather department compared the storm to a "category one hurricane," with gusts up to 150 km/hour.
It warned that the storm would likely bring heavy rainfall and intense winds to Buenos Aires, too.
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Sports club worst hit as storm damaged its roof
A sports club—Club Bahiense del Norte—was reportedly the worst affected by the storm.
The heavy rains and winds resulted in the collapse of the facility's roof during a skating competition, per AFP.
"Unfortunately, the emergency service confirms the death of 13 people in the Bahiense del Norte club," officials said in a statement. Some people also remained trapped under the rubble.
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President Javier Milei expresses grief, announces assistance
Argentinian President Javier Milei and the mayor of Bahía Blanca also confirmed the incidents and deaths.
In a statement, Milei announced that officials in his cabinet were assisting local authorities.
"The president expresses his deepest condolences to the family and friends of those who died because of the storm," his office said in the statement released on Sunday (local time).
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Storms damaged houses, uprooted trees, blew away roofs
Several media outlets shared horrifying visuals from Baha Blanca, which is home to nearly 3 lakh people.
The strong winds lashed the sides of high-rise structures. The storm was followed by distant bursts of lightning and a thick haze that engulfed the city.
Social media videos show downed trees and shattered buildings, some with their roofs blasted off or fallen.
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Watch: Visuals of storm aftermath
Damage to the Olimpo stadium and the Estudiantes club due to the strong wind storm in Bahía Blanca of Buenos Aires province, Argentina 🇦🇷
— Disaster News (@Top_Disaster) December 17, 2023
Video: Cindy
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