Facing the Wrath of Climate Change: Italy Struggles with Drought and Flooding

In recent times, Italy has been grappling with the consequences of climate change, experiencing severe drought followed by torrential rains and devastating flooding. The country is currently on high alert due to a cyclonic vortex that has caused hydrogeological risks in multiple regions. Emilia-Romagna, in particular, faces critical conditions as rivers overflow and rail traffic is suspended for safety reasons.

Over 200 people have been evacuated, and local authorities are urging extreme caution as the situation worsens. The Army has been deployed to help manage the crisis, as rainfall is not expected to subside soon . Meanwhile, Italy's longer-term concerns include the risk of another drought, with the Po River carrying 61% less water than normal and Lake Garda's levels at record lows.

Scientists and environmental groups attribute these extreme weather patterns to human-induced climate change, resulting in more frequent transitions from drought to flooding. With 55% of Italian homes exposed to high hydrogeological risks, addressing climate change and its consequences is a pressing issue for the nation.