WEATHER NEWS
Published November 3, 2023 3:36pm EDT
At least six people died in Italy after floodwaters quickly rose in Tuscany region, according to Italian officials. Video showed cars being carried through the streets by the fast moving water before midnight local time as nearly 8 inches of rain fell in the region.
"We have just sent inflatable boats to Seano, Quarrata and Campi Bisenzio, we have also asked the National Civil Protection for helicopters for the urgent transport of people in code red," Eugenio Giani, the president of Tuscany, posted on X.
Meanwhile, Reuters reports two died when a bridge collapsed near the city of Pistoia, while two elderly victims died in Montemurlo and a fifth person died in the town of Rosignano.
Matteo Biffoni, the mayor of Prato, said the situation was extremely critical and encouraged residents in the region to find higher ground and not to venture outside homes during the storm.
Firefighters said they responded to over 100 calls and performed dozens of rescues with many drivers who were caught off guard by the fast-moving water. Four people were rescued after they were trapped in their vehicles when the Tagliamento River flooded, according to Vigili del Fuoco.
The local government proactively closed schools, parks, sporting venues and other facilities ahead of the extreme weather.
-
Tags
#Italy