Overview
- The late-afternoon surge on January 12 struck Santa Clara del Mar and nearby resorts including Mar del Plata, Mar Chiquita and Camet.
- Authorities confirmed one fatality, identified as 29-year-old Yair Manno, and at least 35 injuries ranging from cuts to a reported heart attack.
- Civil defense officials described the event as a meteotsunami driven by rapid pressure shifts and strong winds rather than seismic activity.
- Witnesses reported a sudden sea withdrawal followed by powerful waves, with estimates around 5–6 meters and some claims up to 30 feet, though tide-gauge data have not been released.
- Lifeguards and emergency services evacuated beaches and conducted rescues, while experts noted the rarity of such events in the region and limited forecasting capacity.