Argentine Lawmaker Calls for State of Emergency After Devastating Floods in Corrientes Province
Argentina’s Corrientes province is grappling with widespread flooding following record-breaking rainfall, prompting a new legislative push for a formal state of emergency. national Deputy Virginia Gallardo, alongside fellow libertarian representative Lisandro Almirón, recently submitted a draft declaration to Congress requesting urgent recognition of the crisis and increased support for affected communities.
The proposal comes after rainfall in the region reached “extraordinary levels,” accumulating nearly 500 millimeters in just one week – considerably exceeding historical averages.This deluge overwhelmed drainage systems and caused rivers to overflow, resulting in extensive flooding across the province. Authorities estimate that approximately 495 people have been impacted, with over 400 forced to evacuate their homes, many experiencing total or partial losses.
The situation was notably dire in San Luis del Palmar, where the overflowing Riachuelo River posed a serious threat to residents, necessitating immediate intervention from emergency services. While weather conditions have improved in recent days, the need for assistance remains acute. Residents have directly appealed to local officials for concrete solutions and long-term infrastructure improvements to prevent future disasters.
“Neighbors openly expressed their need for assistance,” highlighting the urgency of the situation and demanding proactive measures from the government. Rural producers have also been significantly impacted, reporting that their fields remain submerged and requiring them to undertake self-reliant drainage efforts to resume operations. In all instances, residents are seeking support from the state.
The provincial government has reported ongoing health aid distribution, but Gallardo and almirón argue that more ample intervention is required. The Federal Emergency Agency has already dispatched nearly 6,000 essential supplies – including blankets, clothing, food, and hygiene kits – with support from the National gendarmerie and the Red Cross. However, the lawmakers believe “extraordinary tools are still needed” to effectively sustain and expand the disaster response.
“The declaration of the Water Emergency will allow [us] to streamline administrative mechanisms, strengthen assistance and accompany recovery and reconstruction in affected communities,” Gallardo explained in the project’s supporting documentation. The libertarians are also calling for federal solidarity and broad legislative support to implement extraordinary measures aimed at mitigating the disaster’s effects and restoring normal living conditions in Corrientes.
Gallardo, a former television personality, formally joined President Javier Milei’s libertarian movement during the 2025 electoral process and secured her seat in the October 26 elections. She launched her legislative bench shortly after taking office in December,coinciding with the government’s approval of the 2026 Budget.
However, immediate discussion of the emergency declaration is unlikely. Congress is currently in recess, and extraordinary sessions are limited to projects specifically designated by the Executive Branch. When legislative activity resumes in February, La Libertad Avanza will prioritize lab
Why did this happen? Record-breaking rainfall, nearly 500 millimeters in one week, overwhelmed drainage systems and caused rivers like the Riachuelo to overflow in Corrientes province, Argentina.
Who is involved? National Deputy Virginia Gallardo and fellow libertarian representative Lisandro Almirón are pushing for a state of emergency. Approximately 495 people have been impacted, with over 400 evacuated. The provincial government, Federal Emergency Agency, National Gendarmerie, and Red Cross are providing aid.
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