The devastating floods that hit Bahía Blanca prompted a swift response from Argentine football. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced it would send essential supplies, such as non-perishable food, hygiene products, and mattresses, to assist affected families. Additionally, it called on clubs from all categories to join the initiative, reinforcing the idea that sport cannot remain aside in times of crisis.
The Professional League also joined the cause, promoting a collection through its social networks to gather aid for the victims. As the water recedes and we can primarily move vehicles, we have encountered various updates. "The high tide is preventing the water from draining yet," the minister stated in comments to the press.
On Saturday, the provincial governor, Axel Kicillof, along with the National Security Minister, Patricia Bullrich, and Defense Minister, Luis Petri, were in the area coordinating assistance with local mayor Susbielles. According to National Roads, access routes to the city remained closed and restricted due to flooding and sinkholes. Meanwhile, Sansinena, a team from General Cerri, a nearby town to Bahía Blanca, offered itself as a refuge center as it had not suffered damage to its infrastructure.
With football as a solidarity bridge, the sports community is organizing to provide help amidst the emergency, once again demonstrating its social commitment.
The provincial Security Minister, Javier Alonso, confirmed that there are already 12 fatalities from the storm in Bahía Blanca, while assistance tasks continue in the most affected areas, where there is no electricity or water and little cellphone signal. "The most complicated locality today is Ingeniero White, which is still accumulating a lot of water. That is the most relevant point," assured Axel Kicillof's official.
On Saturday, the city of Bahía Blanca woke up with a partially clear sky, 20 degrees, and strong winds that aided in the cleaning and drying of furniture and belongings initiated by residents. After the storm and the flooding across the city, areas of General Cerri and Ingeniero White remained compromised. In Cerri, "the water has receded a lot and is at a low level, at ankle height," Alonso explained.
"Football cannot and does not want to remain indifferent," expressed the organization, calling on fans and clubs to collaborate. Meanwhile, the most representative institutions of the city, such as Olimpo, Villa Mitre, and Liniers, not only suffered the impact of the storm on their venues and stadiums but are also working on assistance for the evacuees. Villa Mitre was one of the most affected clubs, as its stadium, El Fortín, is located in one of the most impacted areas by the floods.
"We have 12 deceased individuals: 7 are identified and 5 are not."
