GALLERY | The horrific Italian floods that led to F1 cancelling Imola Grand Prix

Flooding in the Emilia-Romagna has left an unprecedented impact on the northern Italian region. The floods, which have left nine people dead and more than 5 000 without homes, are still ongoing, which led Formula 1 to call off this weekend's race at the Imola circuit.

It's a chilling thought knowing that so many are left in despair at a time when, normally, the Grand Prix sends the faithful crowd into overdrive. The Italian passion that usually runs vehement through the veins of Tifosi has not been the case over May's opening 19 days.

READ: Formula 1 returns to Imola, home of the darkest weekend in racing history

The decision to call off the race was essential, not just for F1 to save its public image, but out of respect to those who have suffered in the floods - be it the loss of a loved one or personal belongings.

"The F1 community wants to send its thoughts to the people and communities affected by the recent events in the Emilia-Romagna region," the sport said in an official statement.

"We also want to pay tribute to the work of the emergency services who are doing everything they can to help those in need."

Craig Slater explains in more detail why the Emilia Romagna GP was cancelled. pic.twitter.com/j4NHacjDrM

Uneasy footage

At the start of the month, two people lost their lives when the first rains broke out. And then more emotional turmoil followed as the catastrophic waters forced their way into people's homes.

According to local authorities, emergency services - including firefighters and rescuers - have been inundated as they attempt to aid the thousands who are left in despair.

READ: Playing cars in a flood? Safety first as F1 calls off Imola GP rather than tempt Mother Nature

The president of the Emilia-Romagna