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About three weeks ago, the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy seemed to have dried up. There was even a record drought. People longed for a few raindrops.
In a few days the weather situation has turned 180 degrees. By early May, heavy rain had already fallen in the region. Since Monday evening, the region has again been plagued by torrential rain.
About 900 people have been evacuated so far
Large parts of Emilia-Romagna are already under water. According to “Emilia Romagna Meteo”, landslides have already occurred in the communities of Montenzio, Pianoro, Loiano Casal and Fiumanese due to the huge amounts of water.
For the inhabitants of the region, this weather situation is becoming a life-threatening situation. About 900 people have been evacuated from their homes and apartments by security forces so far, according to the Italian daily La Repubblica. 528 of them in the province of Ravenna. The rest are spread over the provinces of Bologna, Forli, Cesena, Modena and Reggio nell’Emilia.
150 millimeters of rain in 48 hours
Improvement is not in sight. Because on the night of Wednesday it should pour again throughout Emilia-Romagna. 150 millimeters of rain in 48 hours. Most cities in the region, including Cesena, Faenza, Forli, Ravenna and Rimini, are already on alert due to the risk of further landslides and flooding.
Kindergartens, schools and day centers for the elderly and disabled will remain closed from Wednesday. Several train connections, such as between Bologna and Rimini, have also been discontinued.
‘The situation is getting worse’
Especially the city of Riccione with its 35,300 inhabitants is struggling with the high water level. The first floor of the emergency room of the local Ceccarini Hospital was completely flooded.
The fire department receives numerous emergency calls because of overcrowded basements or people trapped in underpasses. “The serious emergency affects the entire area of the municipality of Riccione,” the municipality writes.
The rain practically paralyzed the city. The metro lines and several bridges are blocked and impassable. “The situation is getting worse. We advise people to stay at home,” says mayor Daniela Angelini (64).
Mass Civil Defense
The regional councilor for civil protection in Emilia-Romagna, Irene Priolo (49), has already issued warnings to the population and announced measures. ‘Don’t be curious, don’t go on the dikes. Stay away from bridges. Don’t go into the basement and don’t move cars.”
The government will now mobilize civil protection teams at regional and national levels. The utmost attention from citizens is expected in this situation, Priolo said. (ceded)
Source: Blick
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
