The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) has announced a $200 million loan to Argentina to aid in the reconstruction of Bahía Blanca, a city devastated by unprecedented floods earlier this month. The financial assistance aims to address the aftermath of a severe storm that caused 16 fatalities and widespread damage, affecting approximately 70% of the city’s 312,000 residents.

The IDB will utilize its Contingent Credit Facility for Natural Disaster and Public Health Emergencies (CCF), a flexible financial mechanism designed for rapid response in crisis situations. This tool has been instrumental in past emergencies, such as the 2016 earthquake in Ecuador and Hurricane Dorian in the Bahamas in 2019.

The funds, which may come from reallocated resources, will be supplemented by a $200,000 non-reimbursable grant for immediate emergency response efforts. The IDB's support will focus on rebuilding Bahía Blanca, which experienced one of the worst floods in its history on March 7, 2025, following a record-breaking storm.

Within hours, Bahía Blanca received approximately 400 millimeters of rain, transforming local streams into raging rivers and causing extensive flooding. Water levels reached over 190 centimeters in some areas, leading to significant property damage. The city estimates total damages at around 400,000 million pesos, or $375.2 million.

Mayor Federico Susbielles described the situation as "very dramatic," noting that the single-day rainfall total nearly matched the city's annual average. Local authorities confirm that this storm surpassed the previous rainfall record set in 1933.

Bahía Blanca, known for its agricultural, port, and petrochemical industries, as well as its vibrant sports culture, now faces the daunting task of recovery. The IDB's financial support will play a crucial role in helping the city rebuild and restore normalcy to its affected communities.