Severe hailstorm devastates vineyards and towns across NE Italy

Intense hail, heavy rain and strong winds on 11‑12 May struck the northeast of Italy, causing widespread damage in both the Friuli‑Venezia Giulia and Veneto regions. In the Isontino area of Friuli, more than 130 flood reports and seven building collapses were recorded, prompting emergency interventions by civil protection and fire services. Roads and underpasses, such as the Via Manzoni underpass in Ronchi dei Legionari, were closed due to ice accumulation.

In Veneto, the hailstorm hit vineyards during a vulnerable growth phase, with Coldiretti estimating crop losses between 35% and 100% in the most affected zones. Areas such as Ceggia, Noventa di Piave, Annone Veneto, San Stino di Livenza, and Pramaggiore reported up to 90‑100% damage to vines. The damage threatens the current 2026 harvest and may have longer‑term effects on wine quality and production. The storm also harmed vegetable farms along the coast near San Michele al Tagliamento and Bibione. Authorities are monitoring the situation and assessing the full economic impact.