UK Foreign Office issues ‘severe weather’ warning for holiday destination

British holidaymakers have been warned of “severe weather and flooding” in Italy after heavy rain battered parts of the country this weekend. The UK Foreign Office has issued an update for the country, urging Brits to check with their tour providers before travel and “follow the instructions of local authorities.”

The two regions which are particularly affected are Emilia Romagna and Liguira. Emilia Romagna is a region in northern Italy, known for its capital Bologna, while Liguria is a region in the north west, home to the ‘Italian Riviera’ coastline, which includes the picturesque destination of Portofino.

Heavy rain has made its way across central France and parts of Italy, with rain expected to last in the south of Italy until Tuesday, Euronews reports. The Emilia Romagna has been hardest hit with one person reportedly killed after a car was swept away in a flood wave. In Castel Maggiore, the army was dispatched to provide support for the Fire Department and Civil Protection to help rescue residents.

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The warnings come as October half term begins, with many families across the UK jetting off on holidays abroad. In an update for its travel advice page for Italy, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) said: “Severe weather and flooding is affecting many areas of Italy, particularly Emilia Romagna and Liguria.

“Rail services and roads may be affected. The website of Ferrovie dello Stato has more information (in Italian only). Check with your tour operator or accommodation provider before you travel and follow the instructions of local authorities. The website of the Civil Protection Department has more information.”

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