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Bad weather in Sicily and Calabria: red alert and extensive damage

Image of the damage caused by bad weather in Sicily and Calabria

Heavy rains and strong winds cause flooding and disruption in several locations.

Critical situation in the Aeolian Islands

Sicily is currently hit by a wave of bad weather that has led to extreme weather conditions, with incessant rain and strong winds. The Aeolian Islands, in particular, are experiencing a situation of isolation due to adverse sea and weather conditions. Winds have reached speeds of 60 km/h, causing flooding in numerous residential areas. The hamlets of Lipari are on their knees, with the city center severely damaged. The storm has also hit Vulcano, where work on the construction of the port has been interrupted due to the stormy sea.

Red alert and evacuations

With the red alert in effect, all schools in the archipelago remained closed. In Catania, a violent storm destroyed the 'mantellata' of the small port of San Giovanni Li Cuti, while a tornado hit the city, forcing authorities to cordon off the worst-hit areas. The areas of Palagonia and Riposto were among the most damaged, with rescue operations underway to free people trapped in cars due to flooded roads. In Randazzo, the Annunziata torrent flooded, isolating 15 people and requiring an evacuation plan.

Bad weather in Calabria and Sardinia

The situation is no better in Calabria, where heavy rains and strong winds have also caused disruption to the railway line in the Cosenza area. The Civil Protection has issued an orange alert for tomorrow, with schools closed in many cities. Also in Sardinia, the weather alert has been raised from orange to red for the eastern part of the island, with firefighters engaged in numerous interventions for unsafe trees and branches. The strong wind has uprooted metal structures, creating dangerous situations along the roads.

Future forecasts and flood risks

Forecasts indicate a further worsening of bad weather in the coming hours, with the Tunisian vortex bringing heavy rains and a high risk of floods. Even over the weekend, precipitation will mainly hit Southern Italy, extending to the North. The warm flow of Sirocco will contribute to the melting of fallen snow, increasing the risk of rivers flooding. The authorities invite the population to pay attention to warnings and follow the indications of the Civil Protection.