Torrential rains have ravaged Italy, with northern areas suffering the most. Villagers have seen rivers of muddy water coursing through their streets, leaving eight dead and six missing.
The Borghetto Vara, 75 kilometers from Genoa near the picturesque Ligurian coast, was among the areas suffering the worst damage.
With torrents at times reaching first floor windows, the narrow streets of the village, known for its grapes, wines and chestnuts, became a deadly trap for six local residents.
Another two were reported dead in the nearby province of Massa Carrara, famed for its marble.
Local infrastructure also took a hammering as the Magra Bridge in Liguria collapsed, and several towns were cut off due to blocked and damaged roads and railway lines.
Italy’s civil protection agency urged residents in Liguria and Tuscany to stay home and, if travel is unavoidable, to stay away from rivers and streams at risk of overflowing.
Earlier, a flood alert was also issued in Rome and southern areas. However, they were spared the worst effects of the storm.