Landslide Progresses in Niscemi: Ciciliano Warns Residents Won’t Return Home

A massive landslide has devastated Niscemi, a town with a population of 30,000 located in Sicily, Italy. The affected area spans approximately four kilometers. Currently, at least 1,000 residents have been evacuated due to the ongoing instability of the slope.

Landslide Impact in Niscemi

Several neighborhoods, including Sante Croci, Trappeto, and via Popolo, have experienced mandatory evacuations. Major roads, such as routes 10 and 12, are blocked, isolating parts of the town. Mayor Massimiliano Conti is leading emergency operations in collaboration with national and regional civil protection authorities.

Warnings from Officials

Fabio Ciciliano, head of the civil protection department, has indicated that the number of evacuees may increase as the landslide continues to progress. He cautioned that residents living in affected homes may never return. Effective communication regarding these risks is crucial.

• 1,000 people evacuated.
• Neighborhoods impacted: Sante Croci, Trappeto, via Popolo.
• Main roads closed: routes 10 and 12.

The accessibility crisis has prompted the municipality to consider alternative routes. Currently, the only viable road is provincial route 11, limiting connections to the Gela-Catania highway.

Residents’ Concerns

Evacuees express deep concern for their homes and future. One resident, Francesco Blanco, noted the uncertainty surrounding his property, which he had purchased just a year prior. The local community faces significant disruption, affecting schools and healthcare services.

Additionally, local authorities are utilizing drones for ongoing monitoring of the landslide’s progression. According to attorney Ennio Adamo, this situation is considerably more severe than a similar landslide in 1997.

Official Responses

Regional President Renato Schifani acknowledged the delicate nature of the crisis during a visit to Niscemi. He emphasized the involvement of national prevention specialists who are actively monitoring the situation.

As Niscemi grapples with this environmental disaster, residents face an uncertain future. Urgent measures are necessary to provide temporary shelter and ensure safety for those affected by the landslide.