United Arab Emirates authorities have conveyed solidarity with the Italian Republic after powerful storms struck Sicily and parts of southern Italy, triggering flooding, landslides and widespread disruption to communities and infrastructure. The message underscored concern for affected residents and support for emergency response efforts as local authorities assessed damage across coastal towns and inland areas.UAE stands with storm-hit Italy, the message stressed, noting that close ties between the two countries extend to moments of hardship as well as cooperation in trade, culture and diplomacy. The expression of support followed reports of torrential rain, gale-force winds and flash flooding that forced evacuations, damaged homes and interrupted transport links across several provinces.
Italian civil protection agencies said emergency crews were deployed to rescue stranded residents, clear debris from roads and restore power in affected districts. Rail services and ferry crossings were suspended in parts of Sicily as authorities warned of continuing weather volatility. Municipal leaders described rivers breaching banks, hillside slips near residential zones and coastal surges damaging ports and promenades.
The UAE’s statement highlighted condolences for those impacted and appreciation for the efforts of emergency workers and volunteers responding to the crisis. It added that the country remained in contact with Italian counterparts as assessments continued and recovery plans took shape. While no specific assistance package was outlined, the tone reflected established practice in diplomatic outreach following natural disasters.
Meteorological agencies in Italy attributed the storms to an intense low-pressure system over the Mediterranean, drawing warm, moisture-laden air northwards and colliding with cooler air masses. Such conditions have been associated with heavier rainfall events and sudden downpours that overwhelm drainage systems, particularly in urban areas and river basins with steep catchments.
Regional officials in Sicily said dozens of municipalities recorded rainfall totals far above seasonal norms within short periods, compounding risks of flash floods and slope instability. In some towns, schools were closed and public gatherings cancelled as a precaution. Damage assessments focused on agriculture, with vineyards, citrus groves and olive orchards reporting waterlogging and soil erosion.
Southern regions on the mainland also faced disruptions, with strong winds toppling trees and causing localized power outages. Emergency services urged residents to avoid travel in affected zones and to heed weather advisories as further showers were forecast. Insurance groups began compiling early estimates of insured losses, while local chambers of commerce warned of knock-on effects for tourism and small businesses.
The UAE and Italy maintain regular dialogue on climate resilience, renewable energy and disaster risk reduction, areas that have gained prominence as extreme weather events become more frequent across the Mediterranean. Italian authorities have accelerated investments in flood defences, early-warning systems and urban drainage upgrades, while also revisiting land-use planning in high-risk zones.
Diplomatic exchanges between Abu Dhabi and Rome have expanded over the past decade, spanning energy, aerospace, culture and education. Expressions of solidarity following emergencies have become a familiar feature of bilateral relations, reflecting shared commitments to humanitarian principles and international cooperation.
For residents in storm-hit communities, the immediate focus remains on safety and recovery. Local administrations said shelters were opened for displaced families and cleanup operations prioritised critical infrastructure, including hospitals, water treatment plants and transport corridors. Engineers were dispatched to inspect bridges and retaining walls before reopening routes.
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