Disaster Hits the Northern Coast of Italy

          After 20 inches of torrential rainfall within the span of a few days, the Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera was hit by massive flooding and mud flows on October 25, 2011.  The Cinque Terre, which means ‘five lands’ is a series of five picturesque villages clinging to the rugged Ligurian Coast of Northern Italy.  Even those who have not had the pleasure of visiting the Cinque Terre have undoubtedly seen travel pictures of these famous villages.  Arguably one of the most beautiful places in the world, it has in recent years become an extremely popular destination for travelers from across the globe.  The eight mile Cinque Terre Hike between the villages is now an almost obligatory pilgrimage for any traveler worth his salt.

Streets Buried Under Rocks and Mud

          Monterosso and Vernazza, the two northern-most villages, were the hardest hit.  The narrow streets were buried under 12 feet of rocks and mud, cars were overturned and the harbors were filled with debris.  This natural disaster is said to have claimed ten lives and there are reports of others who are missing.  Initially, roads and rail lines were closed, making access by sea the only connection to the area.  About 500 Italian troops have been dispatched to the region to assist the local inhabitants with clean up.  Investigations into the cause of this disaster are ongoing, but over-building has been suggested as a possible culprit.

The Resilient Italian People

          Our hearts go out to the citizens of the Cinque Terre during this difficult time.  No strangers to natural disasters (earthquakes and volcanic eruptions come to mind), the resilient Italian people will be able to dig out from under the debris and restore the charm and beauty of the Cinque Terre to its antediluvian state.  Travelers with the Ligurian Coast of Italy on their itinerary should check with their agents for information about possible changes to their travel plans.  The trails of the Cinque Terre Hike are likely to be closed for some time, but it is our hope that visitors will soon be able to safely return to the ‘five lands’ of the Italian Riviera.

Video Footage of Vernazza Flooding Captured by a Tourist