A devastating landslide has left the Sicilian town of Niscemi in a state of emergency, with approximately 1,500 residents evacuated from their homes after a powerful storm triggered a massive hillside collapse. Houses and vehicles are now teetering perilously on a cliff edge, as the ground continues to shift, raising grave concerns for the safety of the community.
Landslide Develops Along 4km Front
The crisis began on Sunday when initial signs of ground movement were detected, quickly escalating into a full-scale landslide along a 2.5-mile (4km) front. The chasm has been steadily expanding, with fears mounting that it could engulf the town's historic centre, described by officials as a dire situation.
Evacuations and Ongoing Threats
Emergency services have been working tirelessly to evacuate residents, with the number of displaced individuals expected to rise as the landslide progresses. The extreme weather conditions that precipitated the event have compounded the challenges, highlighting vulnerabilities in the region's infrastructure.
Local authorities are monitoring the situation closely, warning that the landslide's growth could lead to further destruction if not contained. This incident underscores the increasing risks posed by climate-related extreme weather events in Italy and beyond.
