Hurricane Harry batters Mediterranean, floods and high waves hit from Sicily to Spain

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Hurricane Harry wreaked havoc across the Mediterranean's islands and coastal regions this week. Continuous torrential rains caused severe flooding in many areas, while high and strong waves caused extensive damage to coastal infrastructure. The storm damaged roads in many Mediterranean-coastal regions, and coastal areas suffered significant damage. Record-breaking rainfall was recorded in Italy, Malta, Spain, and France, disrupting coastal life and disrupting sea travel throughout the Mediterranean. Videos circulating on social media have revealed the damage caused by flooding and tidal waves. Many roads in coastal areas were severely damaged, while emergency services were put on high alert during the storm's passage.

Fallen trees, submerged roads, and damaged buildings were seen in Malta early in the morning. Coastal towns like Marsaskala, Sliema, and Birzebbuga were severely affected by strong winds and surging seas. Ferry services were disrupted on the Italian island of Lipari due to massive waves hitting the coast. Drone video of the famous Sicilian coastal town of Letojani showed large sections of road washed away near the beach. According to the agency, the storm caused widespread devastation in a very short period of time. Italy's Civil Protection Department reported that between January 18 and 21, some areas received nearly two feet (57 centimeters) of rain. Waves reached as high as 32 feet (9.7 meters) in coastal areas, causing flooding.

The French island of Corsica received more than 200 millimeters of rain in a single day, causing rivers to overflow and flooding many areas. Heavy rain and sea waves also caused widespread damage in the Spanish region of Catalonia. A video of a seaside restaurant in Catalonia submerged in water is rapidly going viral on social media. The storm also caused significant damage to numerous restaurants, hotels, and other businesses near the coast.