Large landslide hits the town of Casargo, causing severe material damage - Lombardy, Italy

A large landslide hit the Italian mountain town of Casargo, above Lake Como in northern region of Lombardy after heavy rain hit the region late August 6, 2019. Authorities declared a state of disaster.

According to officials, heavy rain caused the Varrone river to burst its banks for the second time this summer, sending a torrent of mud and water through the streets of Casargo.

While there were no injuries reported, the event caused damage to cars, homes and buildings, and blocked roads, including SP 67.

The mayor of Casargo, Antonio Leonardo Pasquini said there were no fatalities, but material damage is severe and called for the government to declare a state of disaster.

Heavy rain, floods and landslides also affected other parts of Lombardy, including Ono San Pietro in Brescia Province, where a bridge was destroyed. Flooding was also reported in Bergamo Province where emergency services responded to around 20 calls, mostly involving vehicles.

Winds up to 72 km/h (44 mph) and 27 mm (1.06 inches) of rain fell in just 20 minutes over the South Tyrol city of Bolzano. Authorities there said it was the worst storm since June 2008.

In mid-June, rivers Varrone and Pioverna burst their banks, forcing evacuations of homes, businesses and a campsite in Dervio, Premana and Primaluna.

Featured image: Vigili del Fuoco