URGENT WARNING FROM POLISH EMBASSY: ‘SITUATION IS VERY SERIOUS’

Polish Embassy in Rome issued urgent warning Tuesday, January 20, about Cyclone Harry hitting Sicily, describing situation as ‘very serious’ with red alerts in east and orange elsewhere.

Warning from Embassy in Rome

The Polish Embassy in Rome published an urgent warning for tourists and residents on Tuesday, January 20, regarding Cyclone Harry, which is set to hit Sicily. Red alerts are in effect for the eastern part of the island, while orange alerts cover the remaining areas. The embassy stated that authorities describe the situation as ‘very serious’.

Cyclone Harry Hits Sicily

Cyclone Harry may bring heavy rains, thunderstorms with hail, and strong winds, with powerful storms and waves up to seven meters high along the coast. Ferry services to smaller islands, including the Aeolian Islands, have been suspended, as has some rail traffic. Residents and tourists living near the sea are being evacuated, and schools in all nine provincial capitals have been closed. The embassy reported that water from the Agrò River is already flooding surrounding areas, causing numerous roads to be inundated. ‘Mud may cover the roads, and traveling near bridges and valleys is extremely dangerous,’ the embassy noted.

Safety Guidelines

The embassy provided several safety guidelines. Primarily, maintain maximum caution and strictly follow official instructions. Stay at home if possible. If not, avoid moving near the coast, streams, and flood-prone areas. ‘In case of emergencies, contact local crisis operational centers activated in many municipalities. Numbers can be found on the websites of the respective municipality or civil defense in the area. The peak of the weather disturbance is expected during the night and the next day (January 20, 2026). If needed, contact the duty consul at +39 335 599 5212,’ the embassy wrote.

More Information from Italy

More information from Italy can be found in the article: ‘Avalanche in Italian Alps. Five people dead’.

Previous Article

2026 Budget Faces Tribunal Review Over Debt Limit

Next Article

Not Just 'Envelopes': See Which Parking Prohibitions the 2026 Parking Card Exempts