Published19 September 2024, 09:32
Severe Weather“Go to the upper floors”: Red alert in Italy
The highest weather warning level is in effect in several regions of Italy due to persistent heavy rainfall.
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Heavy rainfall has caused flooding in several regions of Italy.
A red warning level has been issued for Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, and Marche.
Approximately 1,000 people are affected by evacuations.
In Central Europe, the situation has improved after the heavy rains of the past days. However, Italy is now reporting heavy rainfall and flooding in several regions of the country. According to weather forecasts, severe rain and downpours are expected to continue in several regions, including Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, at least until Friday.
In addition to Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna, the Marche region by the Adriatic Sea is also affected. The red warning level is in effect, as reported by the Italian Civil Protection. The warning level is currently valid for Wednesday and Thursday.
Thousands Evacuated
Locally, almost 300mm of rain has fallen in Emilia-Romagna, according to Emilia Romagna Meteo. Several communities had to evacuate homes due to imminent flooding. In Bologna, around 200 people were affected.
In Forlì-Cesena, the fire department had to respond multiple times.
Fire Department Italy
Particularly affected by the heavy rain is the municipality of Lugo near Ravenna. There, the municipality urged residents to go to the upper floors of their buildings. Precautionary measures included taking water, food, medications, basic needs, mobile phones, and chargers.
Near Ravenna, the Emiliano-Romagnolo Canal has also overflowed, prompting authorities to ask anyone living within 100 meters of the river to evacuate their homes. About 800 people in the region are affected by this measure.
Firefighter Drowned
The southern part of the country has also been affected by heavy rains in recent days. In the Apulia region, a firefighter has lost his life. The 59-year-old’s SUV was swept away by floodwaters near the municipality of San Severo, as reported by authorities. He drowned while trying to help other drivers. According to reports, he was due to retire soon.
According to weather forecasts, heavy rain and downpours are expected in large parts of Italy due to Storm Boris at least until Friday. Meteorologist Lorenzo Tedici warned on Wednesday: “We will experience severe weather for at least 48 hours, fully characteristic of autumn. This year, the downpours have come a bit too early.”
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