Storms in Sicily and southern Italy, which have been causing chaos and significant damage for several days, continued on Wednesday. Sicily, Sardinia and Calabria were severely hit by Cyclone Harry, ANSA reports.
"It looks like a war zone," said Danilo Lo Giudice, mayor of Santa Teresa di Riva, describing the devastation caused by the extreme weather in the Messina area.
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Dozens of families were evacuated in Catania, where the sea invaded the city's coastline. Several islands also faced storm surges overnight that invaded ports, roads and homes.
Storms in Sicily: what Cyclone Harry brought
Cyclone Harry brought winds of more than 120 km/h, storm surges and torrential rain. The Italian Civil Protection issued the highest level of weather alert for eastern Sicily, eastern Sardinia and southeastern Calabria. Waves of more than nine meters were recorded on the coast in the Messina area. In some areas, up to 300 liters of water per square meter were expected in 48 hours, more than it usually rains in three months.
Local authorities in the three regions closed schools, universities, parks and sports facilities. Firefighters intervened 380 times in Sicily, 170 times in Sardinia and 90 times in Calabria, according to The Local Italia.
What Cyclone Harry means for tourists
Ferries between Sardinia and the mainland or Corsica have been suspended. As have connections between Sicily and the Aeolian Islands. Some railway lines in Calabria have been stopped, and several roads in Sardinia have been closed due to flooding.
Planning a trip to southern Italy? Check Civil Protection weather alerts, flight and ferry status before you leave. Stay in touch with your travel agency or operator. Also check if your travel insurance covers cancellations due to weather.
If Sardinia remains on your list, also read the story of the city of Nuoro.
