27 Oct 2021 | 05:10 AM UTC
Italy, Malta: Adverse weather forecast across portions of southern Italy and Malta through Oct. 29 /update 2
Thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and flooding forecast across portions of southern Italy and Malta through Oct. 29. Disruptions possible.
Event
Rounds of thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and possible flooding are forecast to occur in portions of southern Italy and Malta through at least Oct. 29.
Authorities have issued the following warnings:
Red-level thunderstorm, strong wind, and heavy rain warnings (the highest level on a four-tier scale): Sicily Region in Italy
Orange-level heavy rain, thunderstorm, and strong wind warnings (second-highest level on a four-tier scale): Calabria Region in Italy and Malta
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming day.
In Italy, one person reportedly died and another is missing in Scordia Comune in the Metropolitan City of Catania, Sicily Region, when their car was swept away by floodwaters. Another person has died due to flooding in the town of Gravina, north of Catania, Sicily Region. The pediatric emergency room of the Garibaldi Hospital in Catania, Sicily Region, also flooded. At least 80 people were evacuated from Crotone City, Calabria Region, as a precaution due to the risk of a local stream overflowing.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides cannot be discounted in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant winds, flooding, or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Dozens of flights have been canceled or diverted from Italy's Sicily Region, mostly from the Catania–Fontanarossa Airport (CTA) and Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO). Ferries between the southern islands of Italy have been canceled. The A-18 motorway connecting the cities of Messina and Catania is closed between the Tremestieri and Roccalumera junctions due to a landslide near Scaletta Zanclea Town. The protective parapet of the San Giuliano Bridge collapsed onto State Road 116, damaging the road. State Road 94 in Ragusana is closed in both directions due to flooding of the Simeto River while portions of State Road 385 Di Palagonia are also closed at kilometers 25-29 and 176-179. Authorities have banned residents from stopping in landslide-prone areas and along the coastal road.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
