Two tornadoes struck the coastal town of Marsala in western Sicily, injuring dozens and damaging buildings, including a school, as powerful winds and waterspouts approached from the Mediterranean.
Dozens of people were injured, with at least 11 hospitalized after being struck by flying debris and shattered glass. A 70-year-old man was admitted to a hospital in critical condition with multiple fractures. A school was damaged, leaving six children with minor injuries, though all 273 students inside were evacuated safely.
Drone footage showed extensive damage to the school, including shattered windows and overturned furniture. The storm, described as a 'medicane,' developed due to intense heat over north Africa and unusually warm Mediterranean waters. Scientists have linked rising sea temperatures to the increased frequency of such extreme weather events in the region.
Why it matters
The immediate impact on infrastructure and public safety is evident from the damage to buildings and injuries sustained.
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What to watch
Watch for emergency response efforts by local authorities to address damage and assist injured residents.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.