President Javier Milei traveled to Bahía Blanca this morning to personally monitor the government’s emergency response after the devastating storm that left 16 dead, dozens missing, and widespread destruction.

Accompanied by Presidential General Secretary Karina Milei, Chief of Staff Guillermo Francos, and Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, the president arrived in the city without prior public announcement to avoid what government sources described as politicization of the tragedy. Upon arrival, he met with Defense Minister Luis Petri and planned further discussions with Mayor Federico Susbielles and local emergency officials.

Coordinated Relief Efforts

Since the weekend, the national government has deployed a large-scale relief operation, including:
✔ 10 billion pesos in emergency funds, approved by Chief of Staff Guillermo Francos at the request of Buenos Aires Minister Carlos Bianco.
✔ Multiple Hercules aircraft delivering essential supplies.
✔ A train carrying food, medical supplies, and other aid arriving from Buenos Aires.

Unprecedented Devastation

The storm brought extreme flooding, leaving thousands displaced and causing catastrophic damage to homes, roads, and public infrastructure. The Pena Hospital suffered severe damage, with nurses evacuating premature babies from flooded incubators.

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of the tragedy is the ongoing search for missing children, including Delfina (3) and Pilar (7), who were swept away by floodwaters.

A Tense Political Climate

While initial coordination between Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof and the national government was smooth, tensions have risen since Monday. The reconstruction costs are estimated to exceed 400 billion pesos, and disagreements over funding and logistics have sparked political friction.

Milei’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to relief efforts, but also highlights the challenges ahead in rebuilding Bahía Blanca after one of the worst weather disasters in its history.