Italy hit by hailstorms and wildfires, damages exceed €100 million

In July 2026 a series of extreme weather events struck Italy. Large hailstorms devastated northern and central regions, shattering crops such as melons, tomatoes and cereals, destroying greenhouses, photovoltaic panels and roofs, and causing severe damage to vehicles and emergency housing. Coldiretti reported damage estimates running into the hundreds of millions of euros, and municipalities such as Crema, San Benedetto del Tronto and Ferrara have applied for a state of emergency.

The southern half of the country faced intense heat and widespread wildfires that burned thousands of hectares of forest and pasture in Sardinia, Sicily, Puglia, Calabria and other regions, prompting evacuations and extensive firefighting efforts. A tornado‑like “tromba d'aria” hit the Salento coast, damaging coastal establishments and pushing a boat against a seaside restaurant, while strong winds and sea‑state forced the coast guard to conduct numerous rescues along the Puglian shoreline.

Overall, the combined hail, fire and wind events caused economic losses estimated at more than €100 million, disrupted agriculture, property and tourism, and led local authorities to request emergency assistance and mobilise rescue services.