Parts of Italy are experiencing severe flooding due to heavy rainfall, leading to individuals becoming stranded in their vehicles. Among those rescued were numerous schoolchildren, a mother, and a 10-month-old baby who were stuck on top of a car roof. Over 650 emergency incidents were reported in Lombardy, with more than 200 firefighters responding to the crisis.
The situation in Milan worsened as the Seveso River breached its banks, posing a threat to nearby schools and neighborhoods. Concurrently, the Lambro River’s water levels surged, prompting the swift installation of mobile flood barriers to mitigate the impact of the rising waters.
Footage captured rescue teams navigating waist-deep water to reach abandoned vehicles, some of which were nearly submerged. Efforts were made to clear drains as floodwaters continued to flow through the streets.
In Spigno Monferrato, a German tourist went missing during flash floods, triggering a search operation. Residents were advised to steer clear of flood-prone zones, underpasses, and parks as authorities worked to ensure safety.
Meteorologists in Italy predicted ongoing severe weather, including thunderstorms in central and northern regions, with temperatures expected to dip below seasonal averages. Officials warned of substantial damage to properties, businesses, and infrastructure, preparing requests for emergency aid and compensation.
The Italian Civil Protection Department issued orange alerts for Lombardy, Veneto, and Lazio, highlighting the heightened risks of hydrogeological and flood-related incidents. Yellow alerts remained active in regions such as Piedmont, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Tuscany, Umbria, Abruzzo, Molise, Campania, Sicily, and Sardinia.