In the early hours of the morning, the Adriatic coast, which is popular with holidaymakers, was hit by a severe storm. A veritable "water bomb" with hurricane-force gusts and torrential rain swept across Romagna, leaving behind considerable damage, particularly in the areas around Rimini, Ravenna and Cervia. However, despite the devastation, the coastal towns showed impressive resilience and the clean-up work is already in full swing.
Devastated beaches and massive infrastructure damage
The storm hit the region with full force shortly before sunrise. Wind speeds of up to 122.3 km/h were measured in Bellaria, while 74 millimetres of rain fell in Rimini within a very short space of time. The consequences were devastating: in the municipality of Cervia alone, 265 trees fell, causing power cuts and even disrupting the drinking water supply in some parts of the city.
The beaches, the heart of tourism, were badly affected. Massimo Casanova, operator of the famous "Papeete Beach" in Milano Marittima, spoke of a "heavy blow" and a "devastated beach". Rail traffic was also affected; the local line between Rimini and Igea Marina had to be closed for several hours due to a fallen tree on the tracks.
Quick clean-up and return to normality
However, the most important news is that, according to current information, no people were injured. The emergency services began clearing up immediately after the storm. The authorities in Cervia assured that the situation would quickly normalize and tourism would continue without restrictions. This determination is also evident among the beach operators: despite broken parasols and destroyed pavilions, most bathing establishments reopened on the same day. The railroad line was also reopened in the morning. The rapid and coordinated response of local authorities and businesses ensured that the consequences of the storm were quickly remedied.
