In January 2026, the powerful tropical cyclone “Hali” struck Southern Europe, causing multiple major disasters. Among the affected areas, southern Italy suffered the most severe damage. Following days of heavy rainfall and high winds, a large-scale landslide occurred on the island of Sicily, prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency.
Powerful Cyclone Hits Southern Europe: Over 1,500 Evacuated After Sicily Landslide
According to media reports, a landslide stretching approximately 4 kilometers occurred in the town of Niscemi, Sicily. Large sections of the hillside collapsed, causing catastrophic damage. Many homes were left undermined, with their foundations hanging precariously over the edge—placing them on the brink of disaster. The Italian Civil Protection Department has stated that all houses located along the edge of the landslide are no longer habitable and must be permanently evacuated. More than 1,500 residents have been displaced.
Niscemi is geologically fragile, situated on alternating layers of sand and clay, which creates unstable ground conditions. Once heavy rain infiltrates the soil, it easily triggers ground movement. This is not the first major landslide in the area; in 1997, approximately 400 residents were evacuated due to ground instability, indicating that these risks have long been present.
What Is the Difference Between Cyclones, Typhoons, and Hurricanes?
In fact, all three are essentially the same phenomenon—tropical cyclones. The difference lies only in the regions where they form and the names used.
- Typhoon
Forms in: Northwestern Pacific Ocean
Affects: Taiwan, Japan, the Philippines, coastal China
Active season: Mainly from May to October, with peak activity in August - Hurricane
Forms in: Atlantic Ocean and Eastern Pacific Ocean
Affects: Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, U.S. coastlines
Season: June to the end of November, with peak activity from late August to early September - Cyclone
Forms in: Indian Ocean and South Pacific Ocean
Affects: Australia, Madagascar, and surrounding regions
Australian cyclone season: November to April
On average, about 13 cyclones occur annually, but only about half intensify into severe cyclones, and many dissipate before making landfall
Overdevelopment and Long-Term Government Neglect in Sicily
Sicily is renowned for its stunning coastlines, hilly terrain, and rich historical heritage, making it a popular tourist destination. However, this disaster has once again exposed long-standing structural issues:
1. Overdevelopment of Land
- Extensive construction continues in hillside and geologically unstable areas
- Illegal buildings in coastal and tourist zones have persisted for years
- Inadequate drainage systems and slope engineering
- Lack of comprehensive land-use planning and risk zoning
2. Long-Term Government Neglect
- Previous landslides were recorded, yet no comprehensive geological remediation was carried out
- Insufficient investment in disaster prevention and infrastructure
- Geological survey findings have not been effectively translated into policy action
- Political and local development interests often take precedence over safety considerations
This disaster is estimated to have caused losses of approximately €1.24 billion. It has also reignited public scrutiny over land development policies and disaster management capabilities. Experts warn that as extreme weather events become more frequent, similar disasters are likely to continue unless effective risk management and land-use regulations are properly implemented.
References:
https://ctinews.com/news/items/dyny8V7VxZ
https://news.pts.org.tw/article/792908
https://www.bbc.com/zhongwen/articles/c36k4479gz5o/trad
https://www.bookmanta.com/article?id=Bx9cqKfws5IP3ctPb6fU&ref=80562