Heavy storms cause flooding in Italy, disrupting flights and daily life

Torrential rain and thunderstorms have triggered severe flooding in multiple cities across Italy, causing major disruptions to daily life. Schools, markets, and other public spaces have been closed as a precaution, while flights at several airports have been delayed or canceled. This was reported by Ansa.

Authorities have issued a red alert for the Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna regions, closely monitoring the water level of the Arno River, which runs through Florence.

"Officials are particularly cautious, recalling the devastating 1966 Florence flood that claimed over 100 lives and caused widespread destruction to historic landmarks," the report states.

The Italian Air Force’s meteorological service has also issued an orange alert for Puglia and Sicily, warning of heavy rain, thunderstorms, coastal flooding, and snowfall in mountainous areas. In Palermo, temperatures soared to +28°C, while the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region has been warned of snow and icy conditions.

The government has urged residents to remain vigilant as water levels continue to rise, increasing the risk of further flooding.

Earlier, a similar disaster struck Bahia Blanca, Argentina, where floods killed ten people and displaced more than 1,300 residents. The catastrophe also led to power outages, communication failures, and airport closures, severely affecting the region.