Severe Weather Triggers Orange Alert and Evacuations in Liguria
Heavy rainfall and landslides disrupt transport and force evacuations across the Italian region.
1Atlantic Storm Hits Liguria
A deep Atlantic perturbation is currently impacting the central Mediterranean, bringing unstable air masses through the Rhone valley. This weather system has triggered an orange alert for the eastern Ligurian coast, while central regions remain under a yellow warning. Authorities are monitoring water levels closely as the storm system continues its progression.
2Evacuations in La Spezia
Heavy rainfall yesterday caused significant flooding and landslides across La Spezia, particularly affecting Via del Forno and Via Montalbano. Nine residents were evacuated from their homes in Via Nino Bixio due to ground-floor flooding. Municipal teams are actively clearing underpasses and managing the ongoing emergency response to ensure public safety.
3Record Rainfall and Winds
Data from Arpal indicates extreme precipitation levels, with Castelnuovo Magra recording 226 mm of rain within a 24-hour period. Wind gusts reached 70 km/h at Casoni di Suvero, while temperatures remain unseasonably high due to warm air currents from North Africa. These conditions complicate recovery efforts as the regional operations center monitors developments.
4Firefighter Emergency Operations
Firefighters have conducted over 100 interventions in the La Spezia province since yesterday. Reinforcements from Genoa and Savona were deployed to assist with water damage and rescue operations in the hardest-hit areas, specifically Castelnuovo Magra. Teams are working continuously to address flooded properties and support residents affected by the severe weather.
5Cisa State Road Closure
A landslide at kilometer 7.951 has forced the closure of the SS 62 Cisa state road in Caprigliola, Massa Carrara. Anas teams have implemented traffic diversions for both light and heavy vehicles to maintain connectivity. Authorities are currently working on site to restore road viability as quickly as possible for local commuters.
6Tuscany River Monitoring
Tuscan President Eugenio Giani reported that the Serchio river flood peak has passed through Lucca and San Giuliano Terme, currently showing a downward trend. While other major rivers remain within reference levels, authorities anticipate a new intensification of rainfall in northwestern zones. Officials are maintaining high vigilance across the regional river network.
7Safety Precautions for Residents
Regional authorities have issued strict safety guidelines following a rescue of a driver trapped in a flooded underpass in Massa. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and refrain from crossing flooded roads or underpasses. Even shallow water can cause vehicles to lose control, and hidden hazards like open manholes pose significant risks.
8Ongoing Weather Outlook
The regional operations center remains active for the duration of the alert to coordinate with municipal authorities. With further precipitation expected in the coming hours, the focus remains on preventing additional damage and ensuring rapid response to potential emergencies. Citizens are advised to follow official updates as the weather situation evolves throughout today.