Deadly floods in Italy kill 10, several missing

Flood waters caused by heavy downpours swept through several towns in central-east Italy's hilly region on September 16. Following the heavy rain that triggered floods, at least 10 people have died and several are missing. Besides, dozens of survivors were forced to stay on the rooftops or climb trees to safeguard themselves. While stating the situation, Riccardo Pasqualini, the mayor of Barbara, stated that it was not a "water bomb" but a "tsunami." More than 1,300 Barbara residents are left without drinking water and do not have reliable telephone service, Riccardo added.

Notably, a sudden heavy downpour on September 15 evening devastated Barbara. Floodwater entered garages and basements of houses with its full might, knocking down all the doors. According to state TV, the region was deluged after receiving the rainfall it generally gets in at least six months. Barbara town is in the Marche region, close to the Adriatic Sea.

Most of the 300 firefighters deployed for the rescue mission had to wade through waist-high water, while other personnel resorted to rubber dinghies to rescue survivors. Firefighters stated they saved several people, who had climbed rooftops and trees or were in cars to escape the floodwaters. In Sassoferrato town, police officials rescued a man trapped in a vehicle using a branch.




Moreover, helicopters were also used to rescue people trapped in remote towns in the Apennine Mountains. These towns form central Italy's backbone. While the rescue personnel reported seven deaths, the state radio, RAI, quoted the office of the local prefect and reported about 10 confirmed deaths.

Climatologist Massimiliano Fazzini stated that the disastrous event was extreme and "exceptional." The town of Senigallia is among the worst hit by the flood. The small towns near the tourist town of Urbino also suffered severely from the fast-moving water, debris and mud.

FAQs:

1). Which town in central-east Italy was severely hit by floods?
The town of Barbara was severely hit by the floods caused by a heavy downpour.

2) How many people have been confirmed dead as a result of the floods?
At least 10 people have lost their lives in the floods.