Cyclone Harry causes estimated $2 billion in damages in southern Italy

By Melike Pala

BRUSSELS (AA) - Cyclone Harry has caused extensive damage across Italy's Sicily, Sardinia, and Calabria regions, with initial estimates putting the total cost at around $2 billion, ANSA news agency reported on Friday.

Civil Protection Minister Nello Musumeci said the Cabinet will hold a meeting next week to assess the full extent of the destruction and approve emergency measures.

Governors of the affected regions are expected to be appointed as emergency commissioners to accelerate relief and reconstruction efforts.

Despite the storm's intensity, there were no casualties, officials said, attributing the outcome to effective forecasting and preventive measures.

Major damage includes destroyed coastal roads, marinas, beach resorts, and private properties.

Regional governments have already declared states of emergency, with Calabria requesting €300 million ($352 million) from the national government and Sicily allocating €70 million ($82 million) in regional funds.

Authorities are also exploring EU aid options to support recovery.