Chiara Nava Severe thunderstorms and flooding are affecting the province of La Spezia, where severe weather caused several critical situations throughout the afternoon. The heavy rainfall, which arrived during the yellow weather alert issued by Arpal, has created problems in the capital and numerous towns in the far eastern Ligurian region. The most critical situation occurred in La Spezia, where the Lagora stream overflowed , invading streets, courtyards, and ground-floor rooms.
The rains were also felt in Sarzana, Lerici, and along provincial roads. Traffic was brought to a standstill in several areas, while the Municipality of La Spezia activated its Operations Center to monitor the emergency situation. In anticipation of further deterioration, an orange alert has been issued for Thursday, November 12th, starting at 6:00 a.m.
The Lagora stream overflows in La Spezia, transforming streets into rivers.
In the capital, the Lagora stream , which separates the historic center from the naval base, overflowed its banks, causing flooding in several areas of the city. The water invaded the streets, transforming them into veritable rivers, from Viale Amendola to the area of the Sant'Andrea hospital.
Disruptions were also reported on Corso Cavour, Via Gramsci, Via Veneto, and side streets. Water seeped into backyards and courtyards, even reaching Via Chiodo and the nearby public gardens.
Traffic was severely affected . Traffic was disrupted in numerous areas, starting with the Antoniana area, where several of the main routes connecting the city center and the Aurelia bypass converge, near a shopping center.
In the outlying areas, however, a situation requiring attention has been reported due to the levels of the Dorgia and Fossamastra canals. To coordinate the response and monitor the critical issues , the municipal administration has ordered the opening of the Municipal Operations Center.
Sarzana, Lerici, and Val Graveglia: flooding and road closures
Precipitation also affected the rest of the province. According to data from the Liguria Region's Hydrological Meteorological Observatory, as of 17 pm the daily cumulative rainfall had reached 150 millimeters in La Spezia and 180 millimeters in Sarzana.
In Sarzana itself, flooding has been reported in some underpasses , making them impassable. Problems have also occurred along the coastal road between Lerici and San Terenzo, where water has invaded the roadway.
The situation also required measures on provincial roads: provincial road 17 of Val Graveglia was closed to traffic at the fords over the stream.
Orange alert issued Thursday: schools closed in La Spezia
Given the forecast and local conditions, an orange weather alert has been issued for Thursday, November 12th , beginning at 6:00 AM.
In La Spezia, the municipality has ordered the closure of all schools of all levels. This measure also includes the university campus and the conservatory.
Following heavy rainfall that has already caused flooding, inundation, and road closures , the development of the severe weather remains highly monitored. Authorities continue to monitor waterways and the most exposed areas, while residents are urged to exercise extreme caution when traveling.