Incredible new video footage reveals the aftermath of a significant cliff collapse triggered by a storm, leading to homes perched precariously on the brink of a dangerous plunge.
Over 1,000 individuals were evacuated in Sicily following a 2.5-mile stretch of cliff crumbling during a storm, as confirmed by authorities. The land continued to erode overnight due to ongoing rain permeating the saturated ground after days of heavy rainfall.
Aerial footage from the southern hill town of Niscemi shows a rugged, newly-formed cliff edge encroaching into the town, with apartment buildings hanging over the precipice. Extensive debris lies at the base of the cliff, consisting of building wreckage mingled with rocks and soil.
Despite the landslide occurring on Sunday, no fatalities or injuries have been reported. Local officials anticipate ongoing repercussions in the days ahead as rainwater seeps into the soil.
Mayor Massimiliano Conti informed the press on Monday that the situation is deteriorating with additional collapses recorded, prompting collaborative efforts among local authorities, police, fire, and civil protection units to strategize the next steps. School operations were halted on Monday, with uncertainty about when classes will resume. The mayor described the situation as critical.
Italy’s civil protection agency confirmed the evacuation of all residents within a four-kilometer radius of the landslide. Niscemi, with a population exceeding 27,000, is situated approximately 17 miles inland from the southern coastal city of Gela.
Last week, many coastal areas in Sicily were impacted by Storm Harry, causing destruction to seaside infrastructure and residences. The region’s president estimated damages at €740 million (£640 million). Storm Harry’s effects spread to Malta, where an estimated 380 individuals are believed to have perished while attempting sea crossings in small boats during the storm.
A lone survivor was rescued near Malta after clinging to a boat wreck for about 24 hours. The vessel had departed from Tunisia on January 20, and all other passengers are presumed to have perished.
On Monday, the Italian government declared a 12-month state of emergency for Sicily, Sardinia, and Calabria, allocating €100 million (£86 million) for storm recovery and redevelopment efforts.
