Travel Warning: Italy

October 17, 2000
The Department of State wishes to alert travelers to from flood-related damage to roadways, rail lines and other facilities in northwestern Italy. Recent heavy rains in the northwestern corner of Italy have resulted in landslides in Alpine areas and severe flooding along the banks of the Po and other rivers. Val d'Aosta and Piedmont are the most seriously affected regions. The regions of Liguria and Lombardy have also been affected.

As a result of high water and damaged roads, rail lines and bridges, access to several northwestern cities, including Turin (Torino) and Aosta, has been severely restricted. Some travelers in the Val d'Aosta and Piedmont regions have had to seek emergency shelter due to blocked roads. Flood damage has caused interruptions in electricity and telephone service in some areas. Residents of towns affected by flood conditions are being advised to boil tap water used for drinking.

U.S. travelers planning to travel to or through northwestern Italy by road or rail during the next several weeks should be advised that some routes may be closed for repairs, requiring detours and added travel time. Travelers are advised to check with local tour operators, rental car companies, hotels and/or the consular section of the U.S. Consulate General in Milan regarding local conditions and ease of access to their destination.