Central Italy hailstorm causes massive farm losses and emergency measures

A severe hailstorm swept central Italy on 21–22 July 2026, hitting the province of Teramo in Abruzzo and spreading to Marche, Lombardy, Emilia‑Romagna and other nearby areas. The storm produced large hailstones, strong winds and heavy rain, destroying crops such as tomatoes, peppers, beans, zucchini, corn, sunflowers, vineyards and olive trees, and damaging greenhouses, farm buildings, photovoltaic panels and agricultural machinery.

Farmers' unions including Coldiretti and CNA called for the declaration of a state of natural disaster, and municipal authorities in Teramo, Fano, Gambara and other towns launched online reporting forms to document losses and seek regional and national assistance. Firefighters carried out about 70 interventions in Teramo province alone, while in the Marche province of Ascoli Piceno they logged a record 38 rescues.

The hailstorm also battered motor vehicles, prompting the national body of car body‑shop owners to warn that repairs could reach up to €10 000 per vehicle, with most owners lacking specific hail insurance. Regional governments in Abruzzo, Lombardy, Emilia‑Romagna and Marche are discussing emergency or crisis declarations to mobilise funds and support for affected families and businesses.