Italy has declared a state of emergency in its southern regions following a violent storm that caused more than €1 billion in damage. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni announced an initial €100 million relief package and said a new inter‑ministerial measure would be adopted to restore damaged infrastructure. The storm, which struck Sicily, Sardinia and Calabria, produced unrelenting rain, high winds and waves up to nine metres, flooding coastal streets near Taormina, damaging water‑treatment facilities and raising fears about the upcoming tourist season. In Sicily, damage is estimated at €740 million, with Governor Renato Schifani warning the final figure could be double that. The Italian Civil Protection has evacuated about 1,000 people from landslides threatening Niscemi. In Sardinia, Mayor Beniamino Garau reported the sea had advanced roughly 100 metres inland. The government’s response is aimed at quick financial help and long‑term reconstruction of roads and affected companies.

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