Sicily landslide leaves homes teetering on cliff edge and prompts evacuations

A landslide in Niscemi, Sicily, after days of heavy rain forced the evacuation of more than 1,500 people and left parts of the town unsafe; the national government declared a state of emergency and set aside initial funds for the affected regions.

A large landslide struck Niscemi in southwest Sicily following several days of heavy rain associated with Cyclone Harry, leaving parts of the town at the edge of a newly formed cliff. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited the area as civil protection teams evacuated more than 1,500 residents and established an exclusion zone. Officials said the ground remains water-soaked and unstable, and that some houses can no longer be inhabited. The national government declared a state of emergency for three affected southern regions and allocated an initial 100 million euros while regional authorities estimated wider damage at about 2 billion euros. Key facts: - The landslide occurred in Niscemi after days of heavy rain linked to Cyclone Harry. - Civil protection teams evacuated over 1,500 people and set up an exclusion zone around the most affected area. - Authorities reported ongoing ground instability and said some homes will need permanent relocation. - The national government declared a state of emergency and allocated an initial 100 million euros; regional officials estimated overall damage in Sicily at about 2 billion euros. Summary: The landslide has displaced many residents and left parts of Niscemi unsafe for habitation. Officials said some families will require permanent relocation and are working with local authorities on arrangements. The state of emergency declaration and initial funding are intended to support response and recovery. Longer-term timelines for recovery and relocation remain undetermined.