Severe storms hit the coastal areas between Marsala and Petrosino, as a rare double waterspout forms offshore before a powerful tornado moves inland.
MARSALA, Sicily — A violent storm system swept across Sicily’s western coast, bringing a dramatic and potentially devastating weather event to the area between Marsala and neighbouring Petrosino.
The episode began with an extraordinary sight off the coast of Marsala, where two waterspouts formed over the sea, creating towering columns of swirling water and air just a short distance from the shoreline. Moments later, an intense storm cell reportedly moved inland, unleashing a destructive tornado that struck several rural areas and the nearby town of Petrosino.
The powerful vortex tore through the countryside, reportedly destroying agricultural buildings, uprooting mature trees and bringing down electricity and telephone poles. Roads connecting Marsala and Petrosino were also affected, with reports of cars overturned by the force of the winds and thrown to the roadside or into drainage ditches.
Footage captured by residents and passing motorists along Marsala’s seafront showed the striking double waterspout developing offshore, offering a dramatic illustration of the storm’s intensity.
The event has once again raised concerns about the impact of extreme weather along Sicily’s coastline, where severe storms can pose significant risks to communities, infrastructure and transport networks.
Local authorities and Civil Protection officials have urged residents to exercise extreme caution and avoid unnecessary travel in the affected areas. Emergency crews are working to clear debris, assess potential structural damage and secure major roads to allow rescue and recovery operations to proceed safely.
Residents have been advised to follow official updates and stay away from damaged buildings, fallen power lines and areas exposed to further severe weather.
