A devastating storm has left at least 13 people dead in the port city of Bah?­a Blanca, Argentina, after it unleashed powerful winds and heavy rainfall. According to officials, wind gusts exceeding 150 km/h (93 mph) were recorded, leading to widespread destruction and chaos. The storm struck the city during a skating competition being held at the Bahiense del Norte club, causing the roof of the sports facility to collapse and tragically claim the lives of those seeking shelter inside.

The mayor of Bah?­a Blanca, Federico Susbielles, expressed his sorrow in a statement posted on social media, confirming the death toll and expressing his condolences to the affected families. Local firefighters immediately rushed to the scene to search for survivors and assist those trapped under the rubble. Photos and videos circulating on social media showed the sheer power of the storm, as thick gusts of wind relentlessly battered high-rise buildings. Lightning flashed in the distance, illuminating the hazy city, adding to the apocalyptic scene.

Argentinian President Javier Milei also offered his condolences to the victims' families and pledged support to the affected region. His office issued a statement acknowledging the severity of the storm and the devastating impact it had on Bah?­a Blanca. Wind gusts over 150 km/h prompted an orange alert to be issued, warning residents of the Province of Buenos Aires, and urging them to seek shelter indoors. The National Cabinet, along with provincial and municipal authorities, immediately mobilized to provide assistance to the victims and assess the extent of the damage.

As news of the tragedy spread, the nation's meteorological service warned residents in Buenos Aires to brace themselves for the incoming storm, which had already caused chaos in Bah?­a Blanca. The storm was described as comparable to a Category One hurricane, with gusts reaching up to 86 mph. It was predicted to bring heavy rainfall and intense winds to the capital city, heightening concerns for the safety of its residents.

The harrowing scenes witnessed in Bah?­a Blanca were captured and shared by local media outlets, revealing the true extent of the devastation. Videos depicted the relentless winds lashing against towering buildings, creating an eerie atmosphere, punctuated by sporadic bursts of lightning. The city bore the scars of the storm, with uprooted trees scattered across the streets, and buildings left battered, their roofs torn off or collapsed.

The most significant damage was reported at the Club Bahiense del Norte, a basketball gym where emergency medical workers were tirelessly attending to the injured. It is expected that the death toll may rise as rescuers continue their search for survivors. President Milei acknowledged the efforts of his cabinet in collaborating with local authorities to provide aid and support during this difficult time.

As the storm made its way towards Buenos Aires, residents were urged to stay indoors and take precautions. The presidential office issued a statement recommending that the population consult the meteorological service and remain indoors during the early hours of the morning. The destructive wind gusts and heavy rainfall posed a significant threat to the safety and well-being of the capital's residents.

Argentina mourns the lives lost in this tragic event and stands in solidarity with the affected communities. As the recovery efforts begin and the damage is assessed, it is evident that the strength and resilience of the nation will be tested. However, the Argentine people, led by President Milei and local authorities, are determined to support one another and rebuild their communities in the face of this devastating natural disaster.