Catania faces growing concerns over flooding risks as heavy rains continue to test the city’s preparedness. According to Andrea Cardello, councilor for Prima L’Italia-Lega, a significant factor exacerbating the issue is the critical state of the city’s storm drains. The recent downpours have turned many streets into rivers, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures.
Blocked Drains Exacerbate Flooding
Storm drains across Catania are struggling to cope due to blockages caused by debris, volcanic ash, and accumulated soil. Councilor Cardello described the current state of the drainage system as dire, with many manholes clogged to the point of being ineffective.
Key issues:
- Volcanic Ash: Residue from Mount Etna’s eruptions clogging drainage systems.
- Garbage Accumulation: Uncleaned manholes filled with waste and debris.
- Soil Build-Up: Long-neglected drains turning into containers of compacted earth.
- Restricted Water Flow: Rainwater unable to enter sewer systems, leading to street flooding.
- Increased Flood Risks: Rapid rainwater accumulation causing roads to become impassable.
The councilor emphasized that without immediate action, the situation will only worsen, potentially leading to catastrophic flooding.
Call for Proactive Measures
Cardello criticized the city’s reactive approach to flood management, urging local authorities to adopt proactive strategies. He stressed the importance of regular maintenance and long-term planning to prevent emergencies rather than responding to them belatedly.
Suggested measures:
- Enhanced Cleaning Services: Increasing the frequency of storm drain cleaning in high-risk areas.
- Volcanic Ash Removal: Specialized efforts to clear ash deposits from drainage systems.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating residents on proper waste disposal to reduce garbage accumulation.
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Modernizing the city’s drainage systems to improve capacity and resilience.
- Emergency Response Plans: Developing detailed protocols for rapid action during heavy rains.
Cardello’s call for action comes as residents express growing frustration over repeated flooding events that disrupt daily life and damage property.
The Need for Long-Term Solutions
As Catania grapples with increasing hydrogeological risks, experts and local leaders agree that temporary fixes are no longer sufficient. The city’s vulnerability to heavy rains is compounded by its proximity to Mount Etna, which regularly deposits ash across the region.
Preventive maintenance and modern infrastructure are essential to reducing flood risks and protecting the city’s residents. Without swift and decisive action, Catania could face more frequent and severe flooding events in the future.