Italy: Storm Ianos brings inclement weather to Sicily and Calabria September 17

Event

Storm Ianos brought high winds and heavy rains to parts of Sicily and Calabria regions on Thursday, September 17, as it moved across the Ionian Sea. Rainfall of up to 100mm (4in) was reported in parts of Calabria, particularly in the vicinity of lower Crotone, whilst surf levels reached up to 3m (10ft) on the Ionian Coast. Flooding was reported in Isola Capo Rizzuto (Calabria region) where rainfall reached 148mm (6in) and part of the Ionian State Road has been blocked at two points by landslides. Yellow alerts for high winds (the second in a four-tier scale) remain in place for Calabria and Sicily.

Ianos has been termed as what is informally known as "Medicane", an amalgamation of "Mediterranean" and "hurricane". Ianos will move over the Peloponnese region (Greece) on Friday, September 18, where it is expected to bring high winds and flash flooding in some areas.

Continued strong winds and heavy rainfall with associated flooding and disruptions to transport remain possible.

Advice

Those in the affected areas are advised to monitor local weather reports, avoid areas directly affected by flooding, confirm road conditions before setting out, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.