A mudslide induced by torrential rains washed away homes on the island of Ischia, near Naples, killing at least 7 people and leaving 5 others missing.
As it approached the coast early on Saturday, the flood of mud and debris uprooted trees, swamped structures, and carried automobiles into the water. Numerous homes are currently blocked off, and inclement weather makes rescue efforts difficult.
The first landslide occurred at approximately 03:30 (02:00 GMT), followed by a second one at around 05:00. Residents then began to hear heavy thunder.
The situation was “extremely problematic,” Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi told reporters, and it was thought that the missing persons were stranded in the muck. Over the course of six hours, rainfall totaled up to 155mm.
To prevent impeding emergency services, local officials are advising citizens to remain at home.
