A waterspout has caused widespread damage in Sicily, overturning cars and damaging a nearby school in Marsala. Two waterspouts formed over the sea before hitting land in southern Marsala, between Strasatti and Terrenove.
School hit while students inside
The Alcide De Gasperi school saw windows shattered and cabinets overturned as students were inside. Several people are reported to be injured and are being treated by emergency personnel.
Residents shared dramatic photos showing two dark waterspouts moving into the city. One wrote: ‘I’ve never been afraid of dying like I was a few hours ago. This stuff in 2 minutes became 4 times bigger. I’m still shaking, but luckily everything’s ok at my house. It’s hell.’
Damage across the area
Farm warehouses have been damaged as well, along with uprooted trees and fallen telephone poles. Cars on a roadway towards Petrosino were overturned, with some pictured in nearby ditches.
Emergency workers are responding, fielding hundreds of emergency calls as they attempt to assess the situation.
Officials respond
Regional deputy of the 5 Star Movement, Cristina Ciminnisi, said: ‘The images I am receiving from Marsala and Petrosino are shocking: destroyed houses, torn roofs, overturned cars, and a school hit while there were children and school staff inside. My thoughts are with them, the families, and all the people involved. I thank those who are currently engaged in the first aid and securing the affected areas.’
Waterspouts and tornadoes aren’t uncommon in Italy, but often don’t cause widespread damage. The heavy storm system moving across Sicily has made the situation more dangerous.
