Severe weather has wreaked havoc across the Veneto region of Italy, particularly affecting the province of Vicenza, where heavy rainfall and strong winds have led to widespread damage and disruption. The storm, which began on the afternoon of April 16, 2025, has caused roofs to be torn off, trees to fall, and even a bridge to collapse in Valdagno.
On April 17, 2025, the situation escalated as gusts of wind reached speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour. In Valdagno, a bridge over the Agno torrent collapsed, leading to a sinkhole that damaged provincial road 246. According to reports, the bridge failure occurred near the roundabout between via Terragli and via Fermi, causing immediate traffic disruptions in the area.
By Thursday afternoon, the local fire department had completed 41 interventions in Verona alone, addressing issues such as fallen trees, damaged roofs, and downed power lines. The city faced significant challenges as the strong winds uncovered the roof of the library in the Golosine area, leading to protective tarps being placed over books to prevent water damage. A sign also fell in the central Piazza Bra, and city parks were closed for safety.
In addition to the damage in Verona, the local police reported around thirty incidents related to the storm, including fallen trees in via Saval and damaged road signs on Corso Porta Nuova. The storm's impact on transportation was evident, with train services slowed between Desenzano del Garda and Peschiera due to branches on the tracks.
As the storm continued, a hailstorm struck the Verona area, compounding the challenges faced by residents and emergency services. In Trissino and surrounding areas, the mayor, Davide Faccio, declared a "critical situation," urging residents to stay indoors.
In Venice, the Mose flood defense system was activated to protect the city from rising waters, with predictions indicating that the tide could reach 90 centimeters in the afternoon. Maximum tide levels were expected around 2:25 PM, while a minimum of 70 centimeters was forecast for later that evening.
The storm also brought snow to the Dolomites, with precipitation reported above 1800-2000 meters. This unexpected snow has raised avalanche risks to a level 4 out of 5 for the first time in recent months. The latest reports indicated that over 100 millimeters of rain had fallen in the southern Dolomites and Prealps, with more than 50 millimeters recorded in the northern areas. Avalanche activity has been significant, with medium-sized avalanches reported below the forest limit.
In Torri di Quartesolo, firefighters rescued a minor who slipped down a slippery slope along the bank of the Tesina river. The girl was transported to a hospital for precautionary care after being immobilized and assisted by emergency services.
The situation in Vicenza remains dire, with ongoing interventions by civil protection teams and local authorities. A yellow alert for hydrogeological and hydraulic risk is in effect throughout the region, expected to last until 8 PM on April 18, 2025. The Civil Protection has mobilized resources to assist municipalities in need, particularly those affected by flooding and landslides.
As of Thursday evening, over 100 rescue interventions had been reported along the Agno valley, and the Montebello and Caldogno basins were opened to alleviate water pressure from the heavy rains. Local authorities have advised residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel as conditions continue to deteriorate.
The storm's impact has been felt across the region, with numerous reports of fallen trees, damaged infrastructure, and flooding. In the city of Vicenza, a large tree fell in the San Pio X district, narrowly missing parked cars. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported as a result of these incidents.
The ongoing weather conditions have prompted a significant response from emergency services, with fire brigades responding to calls for assistance related to flooding, dangerous trees, and landslides. The community is urged to remain vigilant as the situation develops.
In summary, the Veneto region, particularly Vicenza, is grappling with the aftermath of severe weather that has led to significant disruption and damage. Local authorities are working tirelessly to manage the situation, but residents are advised to stay safe and heed warnings as the storm continues to affect the area.
