<p>Italian bodybuilder and actor Franco Columbu's native town of Ollolai, located in the mountainous Barbagia region of Sardinia is using his connection to Arnold Schwarzenegger to increase the population level and 'revitalise' the town.&nbsp;</p>

<p>10 American professionals are moving to the small town, paying a token rent of &nbsp;€1 (86p) a month, under the project named Work from Ollolai, launched by the local council in collaboration with the Sa Mata association.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Columbu, whom Schwarzenegger called his “best friend", moved to the US state of California in the late 1960s after spending his initial years in the rural town. The shepherd-turned-boxer then went on to win Mr Europe and Mr Universe titles. He met Schwarzenegger in the mid-60s and the duo instantly forged a brotherly relationship that became a lifetime bond.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/action-stars-never-retire-says-arnold-schwarzenegger-on-bruce-willis-retirement-597733"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'Action stars never retire' says Arnold Schwarzenegger on Bruce Willis’ retirement</strong></a></p>

<p>Columbu appeared alongside Schwarzenegger in <em>The Terminator</em>, the <em>Running Man</em> and <em>Conan the Barbarian</em>. He died in hospital in his native Sardinia in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afterwards, the actor and former governor of California penned a heartfelt Instagram tribute wherein he said his life was “more fun, more colourful, and more complete” thanks to Columbu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“From the minute we met in Munich, you were my partner in crime. We pushed each other, we competed with each other, and we laughed at every moment along the way," wrote&nbsp;Schwarzenegger.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’d left my family, my country, my whole life behind. So when I asked Joe Weider to bring you to train with me, it was because I knew I wasn’t the same without my best friend. I could thrive without money, without my parents, but I couldn’t thrive without you.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/arnold-schwarzenegger-repairs-potholes-on-los-angeles-says-you-have-to-do-it-yourself-581961"><strong>WATCH | Arnold Schwarzenegger repairs potholes on Los Angeles, says, 'you have to do it yourself'</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Other nationalities may be invited later</strong></h2>

<p>According to Francesco Columbu, mayor of Ollolai, the motive behind the new initiative is to revitalise the town.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Revitalising the town, improving the life of inhabitants and curbing depopulation are our objectives. We believe ours is a nice place to live and work remotely, offering a lifestyle made up of nature, tranquillity, healthy food and traditions," said the mayor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The first group of American professionals will live and work alongside roughly 1,300 people that reside in the town. Americans were purely picked due to the town's link to the country. If the initial project is successful, other nationalities will be eligible as well and a website for the applications will be established.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Italy's population crisis&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, Italy has been facing a population crisis in recent times. A report presented by National Statistics Bureau ISTAT in April stated that the birth rate in the European country touched a historic low in 2022 with less than seven newborns for every 1,000 inhabitants. The population shrank by 179,000 to 58.85 million, added the agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-may-cease-to-exist-warns-pm-fumio-kishida-aide-as-birthrate-plummets-to-record-levels-569234" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Japan may cease to exist, warns PM Fumio Kishida aide as birthrate plummets to record levels</strong></a></p>

<p>The Italian population has been on a downward slope since 2008 but it was for the first time that the number sunk below the 400,000 mark. Italy recorded only 392,600 births in 2022, down from 400,249 recorded in the previous year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Italian bodybuilder and actor Franco Columbu's native town of Ollolai, located in the mountainous Barbagia region of Sardinia is using his connection to Arnold Schwarzenegger to increase the population level and 'revitalise' the town.

Italian bodybuilder and actor Franco Columbu's native town of Ollolai, located in the mountainous Barbagia region of Sardinia is using his connection to Arnold Schwarzenegger to increase the population level and 'revitalise' the town. 10 American professionals are moving to the small town, paying a token rent of €1 (86p) a month, under the project named Work from Ollolai, launched by the local council in collaboration with the Sa Mata association. Columbu, whom Schwarzenegger called his “best friend", moved to the US state of California in the late 1960s after spending his initial years in the rural town. The shepherd-turned-boxer then went on to win Mr Europe and Mr Universe titles. He met Schwarzenegger in the mid-60s and the duo instantly forged a brotherly relationship that became a lifetime bond. Also read | 'Action stars never retire' says Arnold Schwarzenegger on Bruce Willis’ retirement Columbu appeared alongside Schwarzenegger in The Terminator, the Running Man and Conan the Barbarian. He died in hospital in his native Sardinia in 2019. Afterwards, the actor and former governor of California penned a heartfelt Instagram tribute wherein he said his life was “more fun, more colourful, and more complete” thanks to Columbu. “From the minute we met in Munich, you were my partner in crime. We pushed each other, we competed with each other, and we laughed at every moment along the way," wrote Schwarzenegger. “I’d left my family, my country, my whole life behind. So when I asked Joe Weider to bring you to train with me, it was because I knew I wasn’t the same without my best friend. I could thrive without money, without my parents, but I couldn’t thrive without you.” WATCH | Arnold Schwarzenegger repairs potholes on Los Angeles, says, 'you have to do it yourself' × Other nationalities may be invited later According to Francesco Columbu, mayor of Ollolai, the motive behind the new initiative is to revitalise the town. “Revitalising the town, improving the life of inhabitants and curbing depopulation are our objectives. We believe ours is a nice place to live and work remotely, offering a lifestyle made up of nature, tranquillity, healthy food and traditions," said the mayor. The first group of American professionals will live and work alongside roughly 1,300 people that reside in the town. Americans were purely picked due to the town's link to the country. If the initial project is successful, other nationalities will be eligible as well and a website for the applications will be established. Italy's population crisis Notably, Italy has been facing a population crisis in recent times. A report presented by National Statistics Bureau ISTAT in April stated that the birth rate in the European country touched a historic low in 2022 with less than seven newborns for every 1,000 inhabitants. The population shrank by 179,000 to 58.85 million, added the agency. Also read | Japan may cease to exist, warns PM Fumio Kishida aide as birthrate plummets to record levels The Italian population has been on a downward slope since 2008 but it was for the first time that the number sunk below the 400,000 mark. Italy recorded only 392,600 births in 2022, down from 400,249 recorded in the previous year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

This Italian town is using its Arnold Schwarzenegger link to give population a boost

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<p>A British national named Mark Andrews lost his life after plunging more than 400 metres down from a mountaintop in Trentino, Italy, on Saturday.</p>

<p>Andrews, an experienced base jumper, was killed instantly upon the impact. He was wearing his wingsuit as well as a parachute. However, it remains unclear if he was able to deploy the chute in time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Originally from Redruth in Cornwall, Andrews, a veteran with over 600 jumps to his resume, had been living in Bucharest, Romania, with his wife. He went to the spot of the jump on his own but it was another base jumper that rang the emergency services after witnessing the incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Afterwards, a mountain rescue helicopter was pressed into service to recover the body which was later flown to a nearby hospital as Andrews' family awaits its repatriation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-43-year-old-british-man-dies-due-to-xylazine-drug-in-the-uk-596234" target="_blank"><strong>WATCH | A 43-year-old British man dies due to Xylazine drug in the UK</strong></a></p>

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<p>According to Andrews' friends in base jumping, he had been a relative latecomer to the sport. However, despite being late into the game, he managed to quickly earn the admiration of the community with his 'fearless' approach.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He came to base jumping quite late. He's only been doing it since 2014 but he packed a lot into those nine years," one of the base jumpers that knew Andrews was quoted as saying by DailyMail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He was fearless and will be missed. He was a regular in Italy at various base-jumping events but had also base-jumped all over the world off bridges and skyscrapers."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/health-and-wellness/research-claims-fatal-heart-attacks-more-common-on-a-monday-600726"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Research claims fatal heart attacks more common on a Monday</strong></a></p>

<p>The tragic fall of Andrews came in the exact same spot where another British base jumper died on the same day last year. On June 2, 2022, Dylan Morris Roberts died after hitting a rock on his descent as the parachute failed to open.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to experts, the area where the incident took place is considered one of the most dangerous spots to base jump. Only experts are recommended to perform the extremely tricky manoeuvre. There are rock and tree ledges in the first 400 metres before the 1500 metres straight down descent which can become difficult to negotiate.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is BASE jumping?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>BASE jumping is basically skydiving but without the airplane. Thrill seekers in this sport leap from fixed objects and use a parachute to descend to the ground. Since Buildings, Antennas, Spans (bridges), and Earth (cliffs, for example) are the most commonly used jumping points, the sport received its acronym, B.A.S.E, which is more commonly called BASE.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite the adrenaline rush, the extreme sport is high in danger and according to reports, more than 400 people have been killed in the last 20 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A British national named Mark Andrews lost his life after plunging more than 400 metres down from a mountaintop in Trentino, Italy, on Saturday. Andrews, an experienced base jumper, was killed instantly upon the impact.

A British national named Mark Andrews lost his life after plunging more than 400 metres down from a mountaintop in Trentino, Italy, on Saturday. Andrews, an experienced base jumper, was killed instantly upon the impact. He was wearing his wingsuit as well as a parachute. However, it remains unclear if he was able to deploy the chute in time. Originally from Redruth in Cornwall, Andrews, a veteran with over 600 jumps to his resume, had been living in Bucharest, Romania, with his wife. He went to the spot of the jump on his own but it was another base jumper that rang the emergency services after witnessing the incident. Afterwards, a mountain rescue helicopter was pressed into service to recover the body which was later flown to a nearby hospital as Andrews' family awaits its repatriation. WATCH | A 43-year-old British man dies due to Xylazine drug in the UK × According to Andrews' friends in base jumping, he had been a relative latecomer to the sport. However, despite being late into the game, he managed to quickly earn the admiration of the community with his 'fearless' approach. "He came to base jumping quite late. He's only been doing it since 2014 but he packed a lot into those nine years," one of the base jumpers that knew Andrews was quoted as saying by DailyMail. "He was fearless and will be missed. He was a regular in Italy at various base-jumping events but had also base-jumped all over the world off bridges and skyscrapers." Also read | Research claims fatal heart attacks more common on a Monday The tragic fall of Andrews came in the exact same spot where another British base jumper died on the same day last year. On June 2, 2022, Dylan Morris Roberts died after hitting a rock on his descent as the parachute failed to open. According to experts, the area where the incident took place is considered one of the most dangerous spots to base jump. Only experts are recommended to perform the extremely tricky manoeuvre. There are rock and tree ledges in the first 400 metres before the 1500 metres straight down descent which can become difficult to negotiate. What is BASE jumping? BASE jumping is basically skydiving but without the airplane. Thrill seekers in this sport leap from fixed objects and use a parachute to descend to the ground. Since Buildings, Antennas, Spans (bridges), and Earth (cliffs, for example) are the most commonly used jumping points, the sport received its acronym, B.A.S.E, which is more commonly called BASE. Despite the adrenaline rush, the extreme sport is high in danger and according to reports, more than 400 people have been killed in the last 20 years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

British base jumper dies after plunging off 400m high cliff wearing wingsuit

2 Italians and 1 Former Mossad agent has been killed after a boat capsized in Italy. Was there a secret meeting taking place in the vessel?

Gravitas | Italy: Vessel full of secret agents capsizes

Two Italian intelligence agents and a retired Israeli security forces member were among four victims of Sunday's boating disaster on Lake Maggiore in northern Italy, local officials say.

Italy: Agents die when boat capsizes on Lake Maggiore

Italian media claim yacht that capsized was not on simple birthday cruise, as authorities probe why vessel with capacity for 15 had over 20 on board. Israel's Foreign Ministry has already said that the deceased Israeli man was a retired member of the security forces, while Italy’s security service has admitted that two of the others — a 62-year-old man and a 53-year-old woman — were employees.

Report: Israeli, Italian secret agents were on ill-fated party boat to swap intel

<p>Four people, including two Italian intelligence service officials and&nbsp;a former member of the Israeli security forces, died&nbsp;when a tourist boat capsized in Lake Maggiore, northern Italy on Monday (May 29).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place near&nbsp;Lisanza at the southern end of the lake and a Russian woman, identified as the wife of the boat captain, also died. The 16-metre-long boat carrying 25 people lost control after the weather suddenly turned stormy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The bodies of four people have been recovered," fire brigade spokesman Luca Cari was quoted as saying by AFP news agency.</p>

<p>Though most of the passengers and crew managed to escape and later swim to the shore, Italians Claudio Alonzi and Tiziana Barnobi were not among the fortunate ones. They had arrived on the boat to&nbsp;celebrate a friend's birthday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The two employees, belonging to the intelligence department, were taking part in a convivial meeting organised to celebrate the birthday of one of the group," added Cari.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Israeli foreign ministry also confirmed that one of the dead was a former member of the country's security forces. They are working with the diplomats to bring home the body.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the videos showed a search and rescue helicopter flying over the scene of the accident with chairs and other debris floating.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Lake Maggiore, the second-largest lake in all of Italy is a popular tourist destination on the south side of the Alps. Thousands come here for boating and to take in the breathtaking views.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/40-metre-super-yacht-sinks-in-the-gulf-of-squillace-509795"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;40-metre super yacht sinks in the Gulf of Squillace</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Not an isolated incident</strong></h2>

<p>Sunday's boat sinking is not a one-off incident in the region. Earlier this month, 15 people died after floods hit the&nbsp;northern region of Emilia Romagna.</p>

<p>Similarly, six months ago, 12 died in a landslide triggered by torrential rain on the southern island of Ischia. In September 2022, 11 people were killed by flash floods in the central region of Marche.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Italy being a popular route for migrants to enter Europe, several migrant boat mishaps have also occurred in recent months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In February, 59 migrants died after their boat sank off the Italian coastal city of Crotone in the southern region of Calabria. The boat had 120 migrants aboard which was way above its carrying capacity. After encountering the rough seas off southern Italy, the boat broke down and capsized instantly.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-over-30-dead-after-migrant-boat-sinks-off-coastal-city-of-crotone-566077"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Italy: 59 dead as overloaded boat ferrying migrants breaks apart, sinks off coastal city of Crotone</strong></a></p>

<p>"It is a huge tragedy which shows the absolute need to act firmly against irregular migration channels," Reuters reported. Piantedosi added that it was essential to stop sea crossings which, offering migrants the illusory mirage of a better life in Europe, enriched traffickers and cause tragedies like today," said&nbsp;Italy's Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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Four people, including two Italian intelligence service officials and a former member of the Israeli security forces, died when a tourist boat capsized in Lake Maggiore, northern Italy on Monday (May 29).

Four people, including two Italian intelligence service officials and a former member of the Israeli security forces, died when a tourist boat capsized in Lake Maggiore, northern Italy on Monday (May 29). The incident took place near Lisanza at the southern end of the lake and a Russian woman, identified as the wife of the boat captain, also died. The 16-metre-long boat carrying 25 people lost control after the weather suddenly turned stormy. "The bodies of four people have been recovered," fire brigade spokesman Luca Cari was quoted as saying by AFP news agency. Though most of the passengers and crew managed to escape and later swim to the shore, Italians Claudio Alonzi and Tiziana Barnobi were not among the fortunate ones. They had arrived on the boat to celebrate a friend's birthday. "The two employees, belonging to the intelligence department, were taking part in a convivial meeting organised to celebrate the birthday of one of the group," added Cari. The Israeli foreign ministry also confirmed that one of the dead was a former member of the country's security forces. They are working with the diplomats to bring home the body. One of the videos showed a search and rescue helicopter flying over the scene of the accident with chairs and other debris floating. Notably, Lake Maggiore, the second-largest lake in all of Italy is a popular tourist destination on the south side of the Alps. Thousands come here for boating and to take in the breathtaking views. WATCH | 40-metre super yacht sinks in the Gulf of Squillace × Not an isolated incident Sunday's boat sinking is not a one-off incident in the region. Earlier this month, 15 people died after floods hit the northern region of Emilia Romagna. Similarly, six months ago, 12 died in a landslide triggered by torrential rain on the southern island of Ischia. In September 2022, 11 people were killed by flash floods in the central region of Marche. With Italy being a popular route for migrants to enter Europe, several migrant boat mishaps have also occurred in recent months. In February, 59 migrants died after their boat sank off the Italian coastal city of Crotone in the southern region of Calabria. The boat had 120 migrants aboard which was way above its carrying capacity. After encountering the rough seas off southern Italy, the boat broke down and capsized instantly. ALSO READ | Italy: 59 dead as overloaded boat ferrying migrants breaks apart, sinks off coastal city of Crotone "It is a huge tragedy which shows the absolute need to act firmly against irregular migration channels," Reuters reported. Piantedosi added that it was essential to stop sea crossings which, offering migrants the illusory mirage of a better life in Europe, enriched traffickers and cause tragedies like today," said Italy's Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi at the time. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Two Italian intelligence officers, one ex-Israeli security agent among four dead in tourist boat accident

<p>At least one person was killed and several others were injured after a tourist boat capsized in a storm on Italy's Lago Maggiore in the northern Lombardy region on Sunday (May 28), Italian media reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The news agency ANSA reported that the local authorities were looking for several people who were still missing. The boat overturned after a sudden whirlwind and was carrying more than 20 tourists and crew.&nbsp;</p>

<p>News agency The Associated Press reported that Italian firefighters said 19 people have been saved and many reportedly managed to swim to shore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report also mentioned that rescue operations continued with divers, boats and a helicopter. As seen in the videos shared by the firefighter video showed pieces of wood floating in the lake, and a helicopter was seen flying overhead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The local Varese News website said that the body of one of the passengers had been recovered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Attilio Fontana, who is the president of the Lombardy region, said that the "very serious incident" had been "caused by a whirlwind".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said on Facebook that the boat was 16m (52ft) long and had been hired by tourists. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Lake Maggiore is the second-largest lake in Italy and a popular tourist destination. It lies on the south side of the Alps.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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At least one person was killed and several others were injured after a tourist boat capsized in a storm on Italy's Lago Maggiore in the northern Lombardy region on Sunday (May 28), Italian media reported.

At least one person was killed and several others were injured after a tourist boat capsized in a storm on Italy's Lago Maggiore in the northern Lombardy region on Sunday (May 28), Italian media reported. The news agency ANSA reported that the local authorities were looking for several people who were still missing. The boat overturned after a sudden whirlwind and was carrying more than 20 tourists and crew. News agency The Associated Press reported that Italian firefighters said 19 people have been saved and many reportedly managed to swim to shore. The report also mentioned that rescue operations continued with divers, boats and a helicopter. As seen in the videos shared by the firefighter video showed pieces of wood floating in the lake, and a helicopter was seen flying overhead. The local Varese News website said that the body of one of the passengers had been recovered. Attilio Fontana, who is the president of the Lombardy region, said that the "very serious incident" had been "caused by a whirlwind". He said on Facebook that the boat was 16m (52ft) long and had been hired by tourists. Lake Maggiore is the second-largest lake in Italy and a popular tourist destination. It lies on the south side of the Alps. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least one killed after tourist boat overturns on Italian lake, rescue work underway

In pics | Venice’s Grand Canal turns fluorescent green, police investigate

After the Italian government approved funding for Italy floods, a pair of bare-chested protestors smeared themselves with mud outside the senate building in Rome on Tuesday.

Climate activists smear themselves with mud in Rome

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - Climate activists in Italy made a powerful statement by turning the water of Rome's iconic Trevi Fountain black. They did this to draw attention to the recent devastating floods in the country's Northeast region which claimed the lives of 14 individuals. As per the activists, the floods which are being described as the worst in the century but is just a warning.

Climate activists turn Rome's iconic Trevi Fountain black

In Pics | Mount Etna eruption spews ash, forces closure of Catania airport

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Sunday visited damaged houses in northeast areas of the country after devastating floods claimed 14 lives, as per reports. This came after she left early from Japan post attending the G7 summit with other world leaders.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
She termed her experience from the visit a "moving" one. She also shook hands with mud-splattered property owners and volunteers, said the PM to the media personnel in Ravenna.</p>

<p>"You're doing a great job," the prime minister told a Ghibullo resident who was assisting people by donating food to people who became homeless due to the tragic floods.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gross-interference-china-summons-japanese-envoy-over-g7-communique-594902">'Gross interference': China summons Japanese envoy over G7 communique</a></p>

<p>While 36,000 people were forced to leave Emilia Romagna earlier this week due to the nonstop rain, the area reported on Sunday that 10,000 or so had already been able to go back home. In a region that also produces grain and fruit like apricots and cherries, the catastrophic weather, which saw six months' worth of rainfall in only 36 hours, has left widespread devastation and taken a heavy toll on farmers.</p>

<p>Even though a red weather advisory was extended until Monday, the rain had mostly stopped by Sunday. Tuesday's cabinet meeting is anticipated to be used by Meloni to release the region's emergency funds that have been blocked.</p>

<h2><strong>EU mobilises emergency equipment to help Italian authorities</strong></h2>

<p>The EU has moblised pumping equipment from Austria, Bulgaria, Poland, Romania, Germany, France, Slovenia, and Slovakia via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism to assist the Italian authorities in dealing with floods in response to a fresh request for aid from Italy.</p>

<p>The request follows recent flooding and landslides in Italy brought on by extreme weather, which especially affected the Emilia Romagna area in the country's north-central region, according to a statement from the EU.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fire-at-indias-delhi-cinema-67-people-inside-hall-safely-evacuated-594909">Fire at India's Delhi cinema, 67 people inside hall safely evacuated</a></p>

<p>The EU Civil Protection Mechanism was initiated by the Italian government on May 21. High-capacity pumping machinery from the European Civil Protection Pool was requested by the authorities.</p>

<p>The EU's Emergency Response Coordination Centre has been in constant contact with the Italian authorities, who are currently assessing the offers, and the EU stands ready to provide further help if needed.&nbsp;The EU's Copernicus programme has also provided emergency satellite mapping of the affected areas, following a request from the Italian civil protection authority on 16 May.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: US President Joe Biden vows unwavering support to Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>As per EU, whenever an emergency overwhelms the response capabilities of a country in Europe and beyond, the bloc can request assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. With this, the European Commission plays a significant role in coordinating the disaster response worldwide.</p>

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Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Sunday visited damaged houses in northeast areas of the country after devastating floods claimed 14 lives, as per reports.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Sunday visited damaged houses in northeast areas of the country after devastating floods claimed 14 lives, as per reports. This came after she left early from Japan post attending the G7 summit with other world leaders. She termed her experience from the visit a "moving" one. She also shook hands with mud-splattered property owners and volunteers, said the PM to the media personnel in Ravenna. "You're doing a great job," the prime minister told a Ghibullo resident who was assisting people by donating food to people who became homeless due to the tragic floods. Also Read | 'Gross interference': China summons Japanese envoy over G7 communique While 36,000 people were forced to leave Emilia Romagna earlier this week due to the nonstop rain, the area reported on Sunday that 10,000 or so had already been able to go back home. In a region that also produces grain and fruit like apricots and cherries, the catastrophic weather, which saw six months' worth of rainfall in only 36 hours, has left widespread devastation and taken a heavy toll on farmers. Even though a red weather advisory was extended until Monday, the rain had mostly stopped by Sunday. Tuesday's cabinet meeting is anticipated to be used by Meloni to release the region's emergency funds that have been blocked. EU mobilises emergency equipment to help Italian authorities The EU has moblised pumping equipment from Austria, Bulgaria, Poland, Romania, Germany, France, Slovenia, and Slovakia via the EU Civil Protection Mechanism to assist the Italian authorities in dealing with floods in response to a fresh request for aid from Italy. The request follows recent flooding and landslides in Italy brought on by extreme weather, which especially affected the Emilia Romagna area in the country's north-central region, according to a statement from the EU. Also Read | Fire at India's Delhi cinema, 67 people inside hall safely evacuated The EU Civil Protection Mechanism was initiated by the Italian government on May 21. High-capacity pumping machinery from the European Civil Protection Pool was requested by the authorities. The EU's Emergency Response Coordination Centre has been in constant contact with the Italian authorities, who are currently assessing the offers, and the EU stands ready to provide further help if needed. The EU's Copernicus programme has also provided emergency satellite mapping of the affected areas, following a request from the Italian civil protection authority on 16 May. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: US President Joe Biden vows unwavering support to Ukraine × As per EU, whenever an emergency overwhelms the response capabilities of a country in Europe and beyond, the bloc can request assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. With this, the European Commission plays a significant role in coordinating the disaster response worldwide. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Italy's Meloni visits flood-hit areas as EU mobilises emergency equipment to help authorities

Activists poured charcoal into the waters of Rome's most famous fountain, calling for action against climate change.

Climate activists blacken Trevi fountain over Italy floods

Over 36,000 people have been forced from their homes as deadly floods strike Northeast Italy. Violent downpours earlier this week has resulted in deaths of at least 14 people. The streets of Emilia-Romagna region have transformed into rivers and authorities extended the red weather alert on Sunday. Leaving the G7 Summit in Japan early Italian Prime Minister Giorgio Meloni returned home to deal with the emergency and thanked fellow G7 leaders for offering aid.

Floods in Northern Italy kill at least 14, over 36,000 residents displaced

Italy has allocated 30 million euros to tackle Artificial Intelligence and its increasing threat to jobs. What exactly is this fund going to do and how will it help workers who stand to lose their jobs to AI? Listen in to Vikram Chandra.

What is Italy's cushion against AI?

AI's threat to jobs: Italy sets aside money to help workers

<p>A woman, who hails from California, United States, bought three abandoned houses in a small town in Italy for just $3.30 and is now busy renovating the properties, as per a report published by the New York Post.<br />
<br />
49-year-old Rubia Daniels became interested in the properties when she learned that they are being offered by the country at a low cost to repopulate deserted villages located in remote areas.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/austrian-town-that-inspired-disneys-frozen-erects-fence-to-stop-tourists-from-taking-selfies-594422">Austrian town, that inspired Disney's Frozen, erects fence to stop tourists from taking selfies</a></p>

<h2><strong>Steal deal</strong></h2>

<p>The three abandoned houses were bought by her in 2019. Daniels stated that she was left "amazed" by the idea and was curious to know if it was true.<br />
<br />
"I did my research, and within three days I had my plane ticket, a rental car, and the hotel, and I left," she said while speaking to Insider.<br />
<br />
The three empty properties were bought by the woman for only $1.10 each by the end of her 10-day tour to Mussomeli which is a small village in Sicily in July 2019.</p>

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<p>The sale and purchase of abandoned properties were confirmed by a representative of Case 1 Euro, which was in charge of the Mussomeli housing development.<br />
<br />
The woman now has different plans for each of the three buildings which she owns in Mussomeli. Daniels said that she will use the first house for residential purposes whenever she visits the town.<br />
<br />
The second house will be converted by her into an art gallery so that she can "give back to the community" and the third property will be renovated into a wellness centre, which she considers as the "biggest renovation".<br />
<br />
The woman started the repair work of the abandoned houses in 2019 but the deadlines were pushed forwards because of the COVID-19 pandemic.<br />
<br />
At present, the renovation of the facade of the first two properties is almost completed. This is not the first case when a property has been purchased at such a low cost.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Italy's floods suggest, climate crisis is at the gates of Europe</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/italys-floods-suggest-climate-crisis-is-at-the-gates-of-europe-594180/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2><strong>'House at price of a coffee'</strong></h2>

<p>In 2021, another town in Sicily called “Castiglione di Sicilia” was offering houses which had price equivalent to a "price of a coffee", according to a report published on CNN.<br />
<br />
The 900 abandoned houses listed by the town were located in some of its oldest parts. The majority of the 900 houses were dilapidated and hence, sold at a symbolic price of $1.20.<br />
<br />
The properties which were in better shape had a discounted price which started from €4,000 ($4329) to €5,000 ($4329). However, the new owners of the properties needed to finish the renovations within three years.</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


A woman, who hails from California, United States, bought three abandoned houses in a small town in Italy for just $3.30 and is now busy renovating the properties, as per a report published by the New York Post.

A woman, who hails from California, United States, bought three abandoned houses in a small town in Italy for just $3.30 and is now busy renovating the properties, as per a report published by the New York Post. 49-year-old Rubia Daniels became interested in the properties when she learned that they are being offered by the country at a low cost to repopulate deserted villages located in remote areas. ALSO READ | Austrian town, that inspired Disney's Frozen, erects fence to stop tourists from taking selfies Steal deal The three abandoned houses were bought by her in 2019. Daniels stated that she was left "amazed" by the idea and was curious to know if it was true. "I did my research, and within three days I had my plane ticket, a rental car, and the hotel, and I left," she said while speaking to Insider. The three empty properties were bought by the woman for only $1.10 each by the end of her 10-day tour to Mussomeli which is a small village in Sicily in July 2019. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rubia Andrade (@rubia.daniels) × The sale and purchase of abandoned properties were confirmed by a representative of Case 1 Euro, which was in charge of the Mussomeli housing development. The woman now has different plans for each of the three buildings which she owns in Mussomeli. Daniels said that she will use the first house for residential purposes whenever she visits the town. The second house will be converted by her into an art gallery so that she can "give back to the community" and the third property will be renovated into a wellness centre, which she considers as the "biggest renovation". The woman started the repair work of the abandoned houses in 2019 but the deadlines were pushed forwards because of the COVID-19 pandemic. At present, the renovation of the facade of the first two properties is almost completed. This is not the first case when a property has been purchased at such a low cost. WATCH | Italy's floods suggest, climate crisis is at the gates of Europe 'House at price of a coffee' In 2021, another town in Sicily called “Castiglione di Sicilia” was offering houses which had price equivalent to a "price of a coffee", according to a report published on CNN. The 900 abandoned houses listed by the town were located in some of its oldest parts. The majority of the 900 houses were dilapidated and hence, sold at a symbolic price of $1.20. The properties which were in better shape had a discounted price which started from €4,000 ($4329) to €5,000 ($4329). However, the new owners of the properties needed to finish the renovations within three years. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Woman buys three houses for only '$3.30' in Italy. Here's how

As floods continue to batter parts of Italy, the death toll from the torrential flooding rises. Residents were forced to move out of their homes. Rohit Wellington Rajan brings you the report.

Death toll mounts in Italy's worst flooding in 100 years

<p>At least 13&nbsp;people have died and thousands of others have been displaced after a devastating flood in Italy’s northern Emilia-Romagna region, local authorities said on Thursday (May 18). This comes after over 20 rivers have burst their banks and the amount of rain, which typically falls in six months, fell in a day and a half.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The death toll rose as rescue workers continued to search for anyone still trapped by floodwaters in the Italian region after downpours devastated homes and farms. The victims included two farmers in their 70s who might have been electrocuted while trying to move a fridge inside a flooded house, reported AFP, citing Italian media reports.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>The damage caused</strong></p>

<p>Media reports citing officials have said that some 300 landslides have taken place and over 10,000 have been displaced. As of early Thursday, some 400 roads were also damaged or destroyed while the floods have affected 42 municipalities.</p>

<p>Speaking to reporters, Emilia-Romagna President Stefano Bonaccini, said, “We are facing a new earthquake,” referring to the seismic events that struck the region in 2012, destroying thousands of homes, and how since then almost everything was rebuilt. He added that we have seen that it can be done and “we will rebuild everything again, I am sure of that.”</p>

<p>Locals were seen waddling through dirty waters while officials have managed to partly restore electricity even as 27,000 people remain in the dark. The Coldiretti agricultural association said that more than 5,000 farms drowned including the so-called “Fruit Valley” as well as corn and grain fields.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Evacuations and rescues</strong></p>

<p>Authorities in Ravenna issued an immediate evacuation order early Thursday morning for three more villages threatened by floods.</p>

<p>The mayor of Ravenna, Michele De Pascale, announced on Thursday that residents of about a half dozen towns could return and warned them “to exercise the utmost caution,” adding that cracks in the river embankments still posed a risk to other areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Among those killed was a couple in Ronta di Cesena believed to have been hit by a wall of water as they went to check on their aromatic herb farm, reported AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Furthermore, evacuations were ordered in towns to the west of Ravenna overnight while residents in Villanova were ordered to seek shelter on upper floors. The Italian coastguard also rescued two elderly people who took refuge on the roof of their flooded house in Faenza.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:&nbsp;</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p>While there was significantly less rainfall on Thursday with light rain expected Friday, authorities continue to remain on high alert. “When we have six months of rain in 36 hours, falling where there had already been record rain two weeks ago, there is no territory that can hold out,” Bonaccini had said late Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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At least 13 people have died and thousands of others have been displaced after a devastating flood in Italy’s northern Emilia-Romagna region, local authorities said on Thursday (May 18).

At least 13 people have died and thousands of others have been displaced after a devastating flood in Italy’s northern Emilia-Romagna region, local authorities said on Thursday (May 18). This comes after over 20 rivers have burst their banks and the amount of rain, which typically falls in six months, fell in a day and a half. The death toll rose as rescue workers continued to search for anyone still trapped by floodwaters in the Italian region after downpours devastated homes and farms. The victims included two farmers in their 70s who might have been electrocuted while trying to move a fridge inside a flooded house, reported AFP, citing Italian media reports. The damage caused Media reports citing officials have said that some 300 landslides have taken place and over 10,000 have been displaced. As of early Thursday, some 400 roads were also damaged or destroyed while the floods have affected 42 municipalities. Speaking to reporters, Emilia-Romagna President Stefano Bonaccini, said, “We are facing a new earthquake,” referring to the seismic events that struck the region in 2012, destroying thousands of homes, and how since then almost everything was rebuilt. He added that we have seen that it can be done and “we will rebuild everything again, I am sure of that.” Locals were seen waddling through dirty waters while officials have managed to partly restore electricity even as 27,000 people remain in the dark. The Coldiretti agricultural association said that more than 5,000 farms drowned including the so-called “Fruit Valley” as well as corn and grain fields. Evacuations and rescues Authorities in Ravenna issued an immediate evacuation order early Thursday morning for three more villages threatened by floods. The mayor of Ravenna, Michele De Pascale, announced on Thursday that residents of about a half dozen towns could return and warned them “to exercise the utmost caution,” adding that cracks in the river embankments still posed a risk to other areas. Among those killed was a couple in Ronta di Cesena believed to have been hit by a wall of water as they went to check on their aromatic herb farm, reported AFP. Furthermore, evacuations were ordered in towns to the west of Ravenna overnight while residents in Villanova were ordered to seek shelter on upper floors. The Italian coastguard also rescued two elderly people who took refuge on the roof of their flooded house in Faenza. Watch the video here: × While there was significantly less rainfall on Thursday with light rain expected Friday, authorities continue to remain on high alert. “When we have six months of rain in 36 hours, falling where there had already been record rain two weeks ago, there is no territory that can hold out,” Bonaccini had said late Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Italy floods: Death toll rises to at least 13, tens of thousands of people displaced

<p>Heavy rains lashed Italy's northern Emilia Romagna region on Wednesday causing deadly floods that claimed the lives of at least 11 people, said a local official.</p>

<p>Eight bodies had been recovered from various locations, the vice president of Emilia-Romagna, Irene Priolo, told reporters, adding that the rains were easing but that river levels were still rising.</p>

<p>As a part of a huge rescue operation involving emergency service and armed forces, the bodies were recovered by divers on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"Overall in Forli, there were three victims, one in Cesena and one in Cesenatico,"&nbsp;which could be a German man previously reported missing, the official said.</p>

<p>"The city is on its knees, devastated and in pain," said Gian Luca Zattini, the mayor of Forli, a city near Bologna where three people lost their lives. "It's the end of the world."</p>

<p>Emilia Romagna, which is also known as one of the richest regions of Italy, was hit by deadly rains just a fortnight ago causing floods that killed at least two people.</p>

<p>Civil Protection Minister Nello Musumeci said that this time, around 50 centimetres (20 inches) of rain fell within 36 hours in Forli, Cesena and Ravenna, which is around half the normal annual rainfall. He described it as a situation "with few precedents".</p>

<p>"It is still a very critical situation," he said, adding that while the rain was still falling, it was expected to lighten during the day.</p>

<p>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni&nbsp;took to Twitter and lent her support for those affected and said the government was "ready to intervene with the necessary aid".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="it">In collegamento con il Comitato operativo della Protezione Civile presieduto dal Ministro Musumeci e il presidente della Regione Emilia-Romagna, Stefano Bonaccini. Il Governo è pronto a fare la sua parte, con misure di urgenza, per fronteggiare l’emergenza e aiutare i cittadini… <a href="https://t.co/tlEZw9ZBEj">pic.twitter.com/tlEZw9ZBEj</a></p>
— Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni/status/1658777246990041094?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="it">Una nuova ondata di forte maltempo ha colpito oggi molte zone, in particolare l'Emilia-Romagna dove il fiume Savio è esondato a Cesena e alcuni territori al nord delle Marche. Desidero esprimere la mia totale vicinanza alle popolazioni colpite. Il Governo segue con attenzione…</p>
— Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) <a href="https://twitter.com/GiorgiaMeloni/status/1658555430652477443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Floods force cancellation of Formula One Grand Prix</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The Emilia Romagna Formula One Grand Prix, scheduled to be held at Imola this weekend was called off by the organisers on Wednesday citing that it was "not possible to safely hold the event" due to heavy flooding in the region.</p>

<p>Formula One released a statement saying that after the high-level discussions following the devastation caused by the floods in the region, &nbsp;"the decision has been taken not to proceed with the Grand Prix weekend at Imola".</p>

<p>"The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event for our fans, the teams and our personnel and it is the right and responsible thing to do given the situation faced by the towns and cities in the region," it added.</p>

<p>"It would not be right to put further pressure on the local authorities and emergency services at this difficult time."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Heavy rains lashed Italy's northern Emilia Romagna region on Wednesday causing deadly floods that claimed the lives of at least 11 people, said a local official.

Heavy rains lashed Italy's northern Emilia Romagna region on Wednesday causing deadly floods that claimed the lives of at least 11 people, said a local official. Eight bodies had been recovered from various locations, the vice president of Emilia-Romagna, Irene Priolo, told reporters, adding that the rains were easing but that river levels were still rising. As a part of a huge rescue operation involving emergency service and armed forces, the bodies were recovered by divers on Wednesday. "Overall in Forli, there were three victims, one in Cesena and one in Cesenatico," which could be a German man previously reported missing, the official said. "The city is on its knees, devastated and in pain," said Gian Luca Zattini, the mayor of Forli, a city near Bologna where three people lost their lives. "It's the end of the world." Emilia Romagna, which is also known as one of the richest regions of Italy, was hit by deadly rains just a fortnight ago causing floods that killed at least two people. Civil Protection Minister Nello Musumeci said that this time, around 50 centimetres (20 inches) of rain fell within 36 hours in Forli, Cesena and Ravenna, which is around half the normal annual rainfall. He described it as a situation "with few precedents". "It is still a very critical situation," he said, adding that while the rain was still falling, it was expected to lighten during the day. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni took to Twitter and lent her support for those affected and said the government was "ready to intervene with the necessary aid". In collegamento con il Comitato operativo della Protezione Civile presieduto dal Ministro Musumeci e il presidente della Regione Emilia-Romagna, Stefano Bonaccini. Il Governo è pronto a fare la sua parte, con misure di urgenza, per fronteggiare l’emergenza e aiutare i cittadini… pic.twitter.com/tlEZw9ZBEj — Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) May 17, 2023 × Una nuova ondata di forte maltempo ha colpito oggi molte zone, in particolare l'Emilia-Romagna dove il fiume Savio è esondato a Cesena e alcuni territori al nord delle Marche. Desidero esprimere la mia totale vicinanza alle popolazioni colpite. Il Governo segue con attenzione… — Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) May 16, 2023 × Floods force cancellation of Formula One Grand Prix The Emilia Romagna Formula One Grand Prix, scheduled to be held at Imola this weekend was called off by the organisers on Wednesday citing that it was "not possible to safely hold the event" due to heavy flooding in the region. Formula One released a statement saying that after the high-level discussions following the devastation caused by the floods in the region, "the decision has been taken not to proceed with the Grand Prix weekend at Imola". "The decision has been taken because it is not possible to safely hold the event for our fans, the teams and our personnel and it is the right and responsible thing to do given the situation faced by the towns and cities in the region," it added. "It would not be right to put further pressure on the local authorities and emergency services at this difficult time." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Italy hit by heavy rain, witnesses half of annual rainfall in 36 hours; flooding claims 11lives

At least nine people died and thousands were evacuated from their homes as torrential rain battered Italy's Northern Emilia-Romagna region. Hem Kaur Saroya brings you the report.

Season's worth of rain leads to floods across Northern Italy

In Photos | 9 dead, thousands evacuated in Italy floods, F1 race cancelled

<p>Southern Europe is all set to face another year of brutal summers and heatwaves, triggering fears that Europe might be on its way to facing water shortages of a level never seen in decades. The trend, attributed to climate change, is expected to spell doom for Europe’s agriculture as well as the power industry. Where farmers are expecting the lowest yield in decades on one hand, hydropower production is also expected to take a severe hit on the other.</p>

<h2><strong>Spain “becoming a desert”</strong></h2>

<p>The country suffered a long and painful drought last year. And no relief is expected this year either, thus severely threatening Spain’s food exports to other European Union nations. As per France 24, the month of April was the driest on record, and several cities recorded their highest temperatures in decades. Jorge Olcina, head of the climatology laboratory at the University of Alicante, said, “The situation is particularly alarming in the regions of Catalonia and Andalusia, where the water reservoirs are at less than 25 per cent of their capacity."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Seattle records high of 31°c | WION Climate Tracker</strong></p>

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<p>Spain is known as “Europe’s back garden” because it exports a large part of its agricultural production, and Spanish farmers are, unsurprisingly, among the first to suffer the consequences of a water shortage.</p>

<p>Patricio Garcia-Fayos, director of the Desertification Research Centre in Valencia, even fretted that a large part of Spain will become desert in the coming years. He said, "It’s essential to fight against climate change and at the same time learn how to manage our water better. Otherwise, a large part of Spain will be a desert in a few years."</p>

<h2><strong>France facing its driest winter since 1959</strong></h2>

<p>Paris has already activated the drought crisis alert in the country’s four departmental prefects. People living in Ain, Isère, Bouches-du-Rhône and the Pyrénées-Orientales are prohibited from using water for non-priority purposes, including watering their lawns and filling their swimming pools. The irony is that the country which was on the verge of facing a food crisis last year has now asked its farmers in these regions to avoid using water for irrigation.</p>

<p>Similarly, Portugal is also experiencing an early arrival of drought. &nbsp;90 per cent of the mainland is facing drought, with 20 per cent of the country facing extreme drought.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/592586">Also Read |&nbsp;Cities reel under heatwave as temperatures soar in India | WION Climate Tracker</a></p>

<p>The agriculture sector of Italy is also under stress after two years of water scarcity. According to Luca Brocca, a director of research at Italy's National Research Council, “Northern Italy has a 70% deficit in snow water reserves and a 40% deficit of soil moisture.”</p>

<h2><strong>Climate change behind the summer crisis</strong></h2>

<p>Experts blame climate change for excruciating summer and water shortages in southern Europe as well as in the Horn of Africa. Hayley Fowler, Professor of Climate Change Impacts at Newcastle University, said, "In terms of the climate change signal, it very much fits with what we're expecting.”</p>

<p>Many farming regions have yet to adopt water-saving methods like precision irrigation or switch to more drought-hardy crops, such as sunflowers.</p>

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Southern Europe is all set to face another year of brutal summers and heatwaves, triggering fears that Europe might be on its way to facing water shortages of a level never seen in decades.

Southern Europe is all set to face another year of brutal summers and heatwaves, triggering fears that Europe might be on its way to facing water shortages of a level never seen in decades. The trend, attributed to climate change, is expected to spell doom for Europe’s agriculture as well as the power industry. Where farmers are expecting the lowest yield in decades on one hand, hydropower production is also expected to take a severe hit on the other. Spain “becoming a desert” The country suffered a long and painful drought last year. And no relief is expected this year either, thus severely threatening Spain’s food exports to other European Union nations. As per France 24, the month of April was the driest on record, and several cities recorded their highest temperatures in decades. Jorge Olcina, head of the climatology laboratory at the University of Alicante, said, “The situation is particularly alarming in the regions of Catalonia and Andalusia, where the water reservoirs are at less than 25 per cent of their capacity." Watch: Seattle records high of 31°c | WION Climate Tracker × Spain is known as “Europe’s back garden” because it exports a large part of its agricultural production, and Spanish farmers are, unsurprisingly, among the first to suffer the consequences of a water shortage. Patricio Garcia-Fayos, director of the Desertification Research Centre in Valencia, even fretted that a large part of Spain will become desert in the coming years. He said, "It’s essential to fight against climate change and at the same time learn how to manage our water better. Otherwise, a large part of Spain will be a desert in a few years." France facing its driest winter since 1959 Paris has already activated the drought crisis alert in the country’s four departmental prefects. People living in Ain, Isère, Bouches-du-Rhône and the Pyrénées-Orientales are prohibited from using water for non-priority purposes, including watering their lawns and filling their swimming pools. The irony is that the country which was on the verge of facing a food crisis last year has now asked its farmers in these regions to avoid using water for irrigation. Similarly, Portugal is also experiencing an early arrival of drought. 90 per cent of the mainland is facing drought, with 20 per cent of the country facing extreme drought. Also Read | Cities reel under heatwave as temperatures soar in India | WION Climate Tracker The agriculture sector of Italy is also under stress after two years of water scarcity. According to Luca Brocca, a director of research at Italy's National Research Council, “Northern Italy has a 70% deficit in snow water reserves and a 40% deficit of soil moisture.” Climate change behind the summer crisis Experts blame climate change for excruciating summer and water shortages in southern Europe as well as in the Horn of Africa. Hayley Fowler, Professor of Climate Change Impacts at Newcastle University, said, "In terms of the climate change signal, it very much fits with what we're expecting.” Many farming regions have yet to adopt water-saving methods like precision irrigation or switch to more drought-hardy crops, such as sunflowers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Southern Europe 'turning into desert', France, Italy and Spain to face brutal summer of drought

As concerns grow around the world over AI snatching away people's jobs, Italy has allocated funds to shield workers. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: How Italy is tackling the AI threat

Italy has set aside a whopping 30 million euros to help unemployed people improve their skills in a world where technology is developing at an unprecedented pace and it seems that no job is safe from automation. As a result, nations around the world are stepping up their efforts to prepare for the potential AI replacement threat.

Italy to invest 30 million euros to tackle automation

In a first for any country Italy allocated 30 million Euros or 33 million dollars to help those whose jobs are at risk from artificial intelligence the fund is also earmarked to train the unemployed to acquire new skills the most obvious questions are why and the answers are simple first the rising concerns about Job losses to Automation and air and the second more Italians on average lack fundamental digital abilities compared to the wider European union workers

Italy allocates funds for job losses to AI, fund to protect & upskill workers

<p>The Italians are finding it hard to afford a plate of their beloved pasta, as soaring prices are not only killing their pockets but also their desire to satiate the dish they revel in.</p>

<p>According to the Washington Post, the average cost of pasta has spiked $2.20 per kilogram in Italy, which is consumed every day by approximately 60 per cent of the population.</p>

<p>And in Siena, a city in Tuscany, pasta jumped from about $1.50 per kg a year ago to $2.37, a 58 per cent increase, consumer-rights group Assoutenti found.</p>

<p>Italian outlet La Repubblica reported that the price of pasta skyrocketed 17.5 per cent over the past year, despite the price of wheat — the main ingredient — falling in recent months. The rate of inflation in Italy is 8.1 per cent, according to the European Central Bank.</p>

<p>The national crisis forced Italy's industry minister Adolfo Urso to convene an emergency meeting of lawmakers, pasta producers, and consumer rights groups in Rome last week on Friday to discuss measures to bring down pasta prices.</p>

<p>After the emergency meeting, the group in a statement clarified that the price rise of pasta was not linked to inflation and asserted that it would cool down eventually by the end of the month.</p>

<p>“Pasta prices are already showing the first, albeit weak, signs of a [decrease], a sign that in the coming months, the cost of pasta will drop significantly,” the statement said, according to CNN.</p>

<p>They said that they would continue to monitor the market closely to protect consumers, and ensure that significant reductions in the cost of energy and raw materials, such as durum wheat, are reflected in the retail price of pasta.</p>

<p>A spokesperson for Urso in a statement said that many producers have provided assurances that increases in pasta prices were only temporary, and had attributed the high prices “to the disposal of inventories [of pasta] made when the cost of raw materials was higher.”</p>

<p>However, experts noted that the supply side issues have been arising due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, triggering&nbsp;inflation in raw materials and as a result, disrupting&nbsp;the supply chains across Europe.</p>

<p>But the consumer rights groups are also claiming that the present inflation trend is also due to corporate greed.</p>

<p>"There is no justification for the increases other than pure speculation on the part of the large food groups who also want to supplement their budgets with extra profits," Furio Truzzi, the president of the consumer rights group, Assoutenti, told the Washington Post.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Italians are finding it hard to afford a plate of their beloved pasta, as soaring prices are not only killing their pockets but also their desire to satiate the dish they revel in.

The Italians are finding it hard to afford a plate of their beloved pasta, as soaring prices are not only killing their pockets but also their desire to satiate the dish they revel in. According to the Washington Post, the average cost of pasta has spiked $2.20 per kilogram in Italy, which is consumed every day by approximately 60 per cent of the population. And in Siena, a city in Tuscany, pasta jumped from about $1.50 per kg a year ago to $2.37, a 58 per cent increase, consumer-rights group Assoutenti found. Italian outlet La Repubblica reported that the price of pasta skyrocketed 17.5 per cent over the past year, despite the price of wheat — the main ingredient — falling in recent months. The rate of inflation in Italy is 8.1 per cent, according to the European Central Bank. The national crisis forced Italy's industry minister Adolfo Urso to convene an emergency meeting of lawmakers, pasta producers, and consumer rights groups in Rome last week on Friday to discuss measures to bring down pasta prices. After the emergency meeting, the group in a statement clarified that the price rise of pasta was not linked to inflation and asserted that it would cool down eventually by the end of the month. “Pasta prices are already showing the first, albeit weak, signs of a [decrease], a sign that in the coming months, the cost of pasta will drop significantly,” the statement said, according to CNN. They said that they would continue to monitor the market closely to protect consumers, and ensure that significant reductions in the cost of energy and raw materials, such as durum wheat, are reflected in the retail price of pasta. A spokesperson for Urso in a statement said that many producers have provided assurances that increases in pasta prices were only temporary, and had attributed the high prices “to the disposal of inventories [of pasta] made when the cost of raw materials was higher.” However, experts noted that the supply side issues have been arising due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, triggering inflation in raw materials and as a result, disrupting the supply chains across Europe. But the consumer rights groups are also claiming that the present inflation trend is also due to corporate greed. "There is no justification for the increases other than pure speculation on the part of the large food groups who also want to supplement their budgets with extra profits," Furio Truzzi, the president of the consumer rights group, Assoutenti, told the Washington Post. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pasta crisis grips Italy as price skyrockets 18%, govt says ‘monitoring situation’

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in France. The visit is part of his efforts to get all the support from the European nations ahead of an anticipated counter-offensive, prior to this in the Ukrainian President had stopped by in Italy and Germany as well.

Ukrainian President Zelensky in France, Paris to provide advanced weaponry to Kyiv | WION

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks at the Vatican with Pope Francis, who had stated in late April that the Holy See is working on a peace mission which aims to end the war with Russia.</p>

<p>During their 40-minute private&nbsp;audience,&nbsp;Zelensky and Pope Francis&nbsp;discussed the need to help "innocent victims" of the conflict, stated the Vatican.</p>

<p>They talked about issues relating to "the humanitarian and political situation in Ukraine caused by the ongoing war", read a Vatican statement.</p>

<p>Zelensky was assured by the 86-year-old pontiff "of his constant prayers, witnessed by his many public appeals and continuous invocation to the Lord for peace since February last year", when Ukraine was invaded by&nbsp;Russia.</p>

<p>"Together they agreed on the need to continue humanitarian efforts to support the population. The pope stressed, in particular, the urgent need for 'human gestures' towards the most fragile people, innocent victims of the conflict," the statement read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zelensky appealed to the pope to "join" Kyiv's 10-point peace plan. Talking about the 19,500 children which Kyiv estimates have been taken to&nbsp;Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea from February 2022,&nbsp;Zelensky tweeted, "We must make every effort to return them home." He added that&nbsp;he had discussed the issue&nbsp;with the pope.</p>

<p>Pope Francis has repeatedly called for peace in Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia in February 2022 and has offered to play the role of mediator with Moscow, although it did not yield any public results.</p>

<p>"An important visit for approaching victory of Ukraine!" tweeted Zelensky shortly after he reached Rome, which marks his first visit to EU and NATO member Italy since Ukraine has been invaded by Russia in February 2022.</p>

<p>Security was tightened in Rome for Zelensky's visit which started with a formal welcome by President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace as more than 100 people gathered nearby holding Ukrainian flags.</p>

<h2><strong>Italy extends military and financial support to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Italy's leaders on Saturday promised Ukraine's Zelensky complete military and financial backing and reiterated their support for the country's EU membership bid as President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Rome for the first time after the war began.</p>

<p>Zelensky held talks with Italy's President Sergio Mattarella and then Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni before heading to the Vatican for meeting Pope Francis.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-set-to-meet-pope-as-germany-announces-more-arms-for-ukraine-592061">Zelensky set to meet Pope as Germany announces more arms for Ukraine</a></p>

<p>Both Meloni and Mattarella ensured full support of Italy in terms of military, financial, humanitarian and reconstruction aid to Ukraine in the short and long period.</p>

<p>Meloni held a press conference with Zelensky after her meeting, where she criticised Russia's "brutal and unjust aggression" and pledged support to Ukraine for "as long as is necessary”, further appealing to Russia to immediately withdraw.</p>

<p>"You can't achieve peace through a surrender," she stated, echoing Mattarella's previous comment. "It would be a very grave precedent for all nations of the world,” she added.</p>

<p>She further emphasised Italy's support for Ukraine's membership of the European Union and the "intensification" of a partnership with NATO.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Russia acknowledges retreat north of Bakhmut, Wagner boss calls it a 'rout'</strong></p>

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<p>While heading towards the presidential palace, Zelensky's motorcade passed by small groups of people who held Ukrainian flags. A signboard was held by one person condemning Russia.</p>

<p>Zelensky went to Rome onboard an Italian government plane which was escorted by fighter jets over Italian airspace. On Sunday, he will be travelling to Germany.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks at the Vatican with Pope Francis, who had stated in late April that the Holy See is working on a peace mission which aims to end the war with Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks at the Vatican with Pope Francis, who had stated in late April that the Holy See is working on a peace mission which aims to end the war with Russia. During their 40-minute private audience, Zelensky and Pope Francis discussed the need to help "innocent victims" of the conflict, stated the Vatican. They talked about issues relating to "the humanitarian and political situation in Ukraine caused by the ongoing war", read a Vatican statement. Zelensky was assured by the 86-year-old pontiff "of his constant prayers, witnessed by his many public appeals and continuous invocation to the Lord for peace since February last year", when Ukraine was invaded by Russia. "Together they agreed on the need to continue humanitarian efforts to support the population. The pope stressed, in particular, the urgent need for 'human gestures' towards the most fragile people, innocent victims of the conflict," the statement read. Zelensky appealed to the pope to "join" Kyiv's 10-point peace plan. Talking about the 19,500 children which Kyiv estimates have been taken to Russia or Russian-occupied Crimea from February 2022, Zelensky tweeted, "We must make every effort to return them home." He added that he had discussed the issue with the pope. Pope Francis has repeatedly called for peace in Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia in February 2022 and has offered to play the role of mediator with Moscow, although it did not yield any public results. "An important visit for approaching victory of Ukraine!" tweeted Zelensky shortly after he reached Rome, which marks his first visit to EU and NATO member Italy since Ukraine has been invaded by Russia in February 2022. Security was tightened in Rome for Zelensky's visit which started with a formal welcome by President Sergio Mattarella at the Quirinale Palace as more than 100 people gathered nearby holding Ukrainian flags. Italy extends military and financial support to Ukraine Italy's leaders on Saturday promised Ukraine's Zelensky complete military and financial backing and reiterated their support for the country's EU membership bid as President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Rome for the first time after the war began. Zelensky held talks with Italy's President Sergio Mattarella and then Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni before heading to the Vatican for meeting Pope Francis. ALSO READ | Zelensky set to meet Pope as Germany announces more arms for Ukraine Both Meloni and Mattarella ensured full support of Italy in terms of military, financial, humanitarian and reconstruction aid to Ukraine in the short and long period. Meloni held a press conference with Zelensky after her meeting, where she criticised Russia's "brutal and unjust aggression" and pledged support to Ukraine for "as long as is necessary”, further appealing to Russia to immediately withdraw. "You can't achieve peace through a surrender," she stated, echoing Mattarella's previous comment. "It would be a very grave precedent for all nations of the world,” she added. She further emphasised Italy's support for Ukraine's membership of the European Union and the "intensification" of a partnership with NATO. WATCH | Russia acknowledges retreat north of Bakhmut, Wagner boss calls it a 'rout' While heading towards the presidential palace, Zelensky's motorcade passed by small groups of people who held Ukrainian flags. A signboard was held by one person condemning Russia. Zelensky went to Rome onboard an Italian government plane which was escorted by fighter jets over Italian airspace. On Sunday, he will be travelling to Germany. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zelensky asks Pope Francis to 'join' Kyiv's peace plan as Italy reiterates its support

Milan explosion: Several vehicles in centre of Milan, Italy were on fire after a parked van carrying gas cylinders exploded on the streets, according to local reports. No further details of any death were reported.

BREAKING | Italy: Massive explosion in Milan leaves several vehicles in flames | WION

Several cars in Milan were engulfed in fire after the city was rocked by massive explosions. The explosions are believed to have been triggered by a truck which carried oxygen tanks.

Milan Explosion: Massive EXPLOSION rocks Italy's MILAN, several vehicles on fire

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