Italy Hit by Severe Storms and Widespread Flooding

Italy is currently facing a significant weather crisis, with severe storms and widespread flooding impacting multiple regions. The storms, which began earlier in September, have intensified, causing evacuations and significant disruption across the country.

Tuscany and Veneto were particularly affected on September 10, 2025, by torrential rainfall. In Lignano Sabbiadoro, a campsite housing approximately 2,300 tourists was evacuated due to rising water levels. Venice activated its MOSE flood defense system, with Mayor Luigi Brugnaro confirming the deployment of the mobile barriers to manage an anticipated water level of 1.05 meters. The Veneto region's president, Luca Zaia, declared a state of emergency for the region, with areas like Bibione experiencing submerged streets and numerous affected buildings. The southern region of Campania remains on elevated weather alert due to the heightened risk of flash floods and landslides, while Milan is under a yellow weather alert with concerns about the Lambro and Seveso rivers potentially overflowing.

Earlier in September, Tuscany experienced significant flooding, with Carrara receiving over 130 mm of rain in a single night, causing the Carrione stream to threaten overflow. Elba Island also faced a violent thunderstorm, isolating around 200 residents in Portoferraio. The Italian Civil Protection Department issued nationwide warnings for thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds, placing five regions under an orange alert for hydrogeological risk.

The extreme weather events have also impacted travel, with rail services in major cities like Rome, Milan, and Naples reporting delays and cancellations. This disruption affects both local commuters and tourists, highlighting the broad reach of the current weather crisis. The nation's vital tourism sector is particularly vulnerable to such natural disasters, as evidenced by past events like the November 2019 floods in Venice, which significantly impacted visitor numbers.