ROME (AP) — Severe rainfall struck the Italian regions of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna on Friday, causing the main rivers in the areas to rise above flood alert thresholds. In central Tuscany, schools were shut in various cities, including Florence, where local authorities closed museums, cinemas, and theaters. The alert level for the Arno River, which flows through Florence and Pisa, was raised by regional authorities and civil protection, with the river expected to peak later in the afternoon. Regional governor Eugenio Giani expressed on social media that the town of Sesto Fiorentino, near Florence, was facing a critical situation as the Rimaggio stream overflowed, flooding central streets. Northern Emilia-Romagna also experienced heavy rainfall, affecting areas like Forlì, Ravenna, Bologna, and Ferrara, where local rivers surpassed flood alert levels in mountainous regions. Bologna officials issued evacuation orders for ground floor residents due to the risk of flooding caused by torrential rain. Emilia-Romagna has faced severe weather events in recent years, leading to loss of life and significant damage to agricultural sectors.
