Sign in. It’s quick, free and it’s up to you.
An account is an optional way to support the work we do. Find out more.
A number of vehicles were destroyed in the severe weather event. Alamy Stock Photo
Italy
Dozens injured and school destroyed as tornadoes tear through Sicily
More than 270 pupils were inside the school when it was struck by one of two tornadoes on Friday.
DOZENS OF PEOPLE were injured and a school was destroyed after two tornadoes swept through western Sicily on Friday.
The tornadoes formed over the sea before moving inland, striking the areas around Marsala and Petrosino, where homes were damaged, vehicles overturned and trees and electricity poles brought down.
Italian authorities said 32 people were treated in hospital following the storms, with two patients still in serious condition, according to local media.
A tornado struck western Sicily, Italy, on Friday, damaging homes, a school and several cars, some of which were overturned by powerful winds. 10 people, including five children, were hospitalized, according to Trapani Mayor Giacomo Tranchida. https://t.co/H0FEa0XBOX
— CBS News (@CBSNews) October 9, 2026
Among the worst-hit buildings was the Terrenove branch of the Alcide De Gasperi school in Marsala, where 273 pupils were attending classes when a tornado struck.
Several children suffered minor injuries, but staff managed to move pupils to safer areas of the building.
School principal Leonardo Gullotta told Italian news outlet ANSA that the building had been completely destroyed, adding that staff had acted quickly to protect the children.
Elsewhere, two people were injured when their car was thrown into a ravine by the powerful winds.
Seven families have been evacuated from their homes, while authorities have arranged alternative classrooms for pupils at the damaged school.
Emergency crews have been clearing debris and repairing infrastructure, with local authorities seeking a declaration of a state of emergency.
have your say