A large landslide has struck the city of Niscemi on the island of Sicily, Italy. Intense rains caused by Cyclone Harry have led to a 4-kilometer long rock face giving way. Several homes and cars now hang perilously on the cliff’s edge. Approximately 1500 residents have been relocated to safer areas. While no deaths or injuries have been reported, the situation is critically severe.
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Narrative of Events
When and Where? The event began on Sunday (January 25-26, 2026). Niscemi city, located in south-central Sicily, which has a population of about 27,000, is slowly sinking due to its plateau base.
Impact of Cyclone Harry: Last week, Cyclone Harry wreaked havoc on Sicily, Sardinia, and Calabria, bringing in 9-meter-high waves, torrential rains, and floods. Roads, homes, and resorts along coastal areas were overwhelmed. The soaked ground led to the landslide.
Details of the Landslide: A segment 4 km in length broke away. A thin slice of rock collapsed, leaving homes partially damaged. Drone footage reveals houses and cars dangling dangerously over ravines. The landslide activity persists.
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Source: aajtak
Evacuation and Relief Efforts
Affected Population: Italy's Civil Protection Agency has evacuated all residents within the 4 km affected radius. So far, 1500 people have been relocated, with many sheltering with relatives and hundreds taking refuge in sports arenas.
Mayor’s Statement: Massimiliano Conti, the mayor of Niscemi, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, urging residents to stay home and discussing plans for creating a ‘red zone’ where re-entry will be prohibited.
Schools and Roads: All schools remain closed. Two provincial roads have either collapsed or are blocked. Geological surveys continue.
Source: aajtak
Loss and Government Action
Total Damages:
The damage from Cyclone Harry in Sicily amounts to 740 million Euros (approximately 6500 crore INR). Across the affected regions, it might reach up to 1.5 billion Euros. The Italian government has declared an emergency for Sicily, Sardinia, and Calabria, allocating initial support of 100 million Euros.
Projections:
Renato Schifani remarked that the losses are vast, and many homes might not be salvageable, necessitating resettlement.
Historical Note: The area experienced a similar landslide 29 years ago, damaging dozens of homes and leaving 117 families homeless.
Source: aajtak
Increasing Incidents: Why?
In recent years, extreme weather has become more prevalent in Italy. Flooding, landslides, and storms are now commonplace. Climate change exacerbates these conditions, resulting in more intense and erratic rainfall. Experts warn that although there were past warnings for older areas, actions were insufficient.
This incident represents a significant shock for the people of Sicily. The government and local authorities are now focusing on long-term relief and rehabilitation plans. Drone and video footage clearly depict the devastation—homes teetering on the brink of collapse into ravines.
