UK Foreign Office issues severe weather warning for Italy holiday destinations

One person has reportedly died after being swept in a flood wave in Italy after heavy rain affected several parts of the country

British holidaymakers have been warned of “severe weather and flooding” in Italy after heavy rain battered parts of the country this weekend. Now the UK Foreign Office has issued an update for the country, urging British travellers to check with their tour providers before travelling and “follow the instructions of local authorities.”

The two regions of Italy which are particularly affected are Emilia Romagna and Liguria. Emilia Romagna is located in northern Italy, known for its capital Bologna, while Liguria is in the north west, home to the ‘Italian Riviera’ coastline, which includes the picturesque destination of Portofino.

As with Storm Ashley in the UK, heavy rain has made its way across France and into Italy, with rain expected to last in the south of Italy until Tuesday. The Emilia Romagna has been worst hit so far, with one person reportedly killed after a car was swept away in a flood wave. In Castel Maggiore, the army was dispatched to provide support for the Fire Department and Civil Protection to help rescue residents.

The warnings come as October half term begins, with many families across the UK jetting off on holidays abroad. In an update for its travel advice page for Italy, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said: “Severe weather and flooding is affecting many areas of Italy, particularly Emilia Romagna and Liguria.

“Rail services and roads may be affected. The website of Ferrovie dello Stato has more information (in Italian only). Check with your tour operator or accommodation provider before you travel and follow the instructions of local authorities. The website of the Civil Protection Department has more information.”