Lionel Messi sends emotional message of support as Argentine city of Bahia Blanca is devastated by deadly flash flood - killing at least 16 people

The disaster was caused by torrential rain in the port city on Friday as flash flooding caused havoc and left multiple people dead. An eight-hour downpour destroyed bridges and roads in the city and thousands of people were forced to flee their homes. To show solidarity with his compatriots, Argentina's World Cup-winning captain Messi sent out a message of support on social media.

On his Instagram story, Messi wrote: "We are sadly following what is happening in Bahia Blanca. My condolences to the families who lost loved ones and much strength to everyone who is having a hard time at this very difficult time."

IG:@leomessi

Large parts of the city in the south-west of the Buenos Aires region have been left without electricity and at least 1,200 people have been forced to evacuate. More than 400mm of rain fell on the city on Friday - a third of the annual total average. Video footage showed cars being washed away.

Provincial government minister Carlos Bianco told a local radio station: "We have to rebuild a city. There are people who lost everything."

Messi has not played for Inter Miami since their CONCACAF Champions Cup clash against Kansas City on February 26. The Barcelona legend could be back in action this Friday as Miami take on Cavalier in the second leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16 fixture.