Valle Aurina: Massive Landslide Blocks Road, 120 Evacuated After Violent Storm
A powerful landslide struck the Valle Aurina valley in South Tyrol late Wednesday night, forcing the evacuation of around 120 people and leaving the area temporarily isolated. The event occurred between San Giovanni and Lutago, where a large mass of earth and rocks cascaded onto the roadway and into the Rio Aurino riverbed. The slide was triggered by an intense thunderstorm that caused the slope above the road to give way, burying the carriageway under debris. Fortunately, no vehicles were passing at the time, preventing any injuries.
The most critical situation developed in the Gisse area of San Giovanni, where a debris flow originating from the Rio Rosso, near Malga Daimer, reached the Aurino stream and created a temporary dam. This blockage raised concerns about potential flooding, prompting authorities to evacuate residents from the affected zone as a precaution. Emergency services, including civil protection and fire brigades, worked through the night to assess the damage and secure the area.
Local officials described the event as a ‘maxi-frana’ (mega-landslide), highlighting the sheer volume of material that moved down the mountainside. The road remains closed, and cleanup operations are underway, but the extent of the damage and the time needed for full restoration are still being evaluated. Meanwhile, the community is counting itself lucky that the slide happened at night when traffic was minimal, avoiding what could have been a catastrophic outcome.
This event underscores the vulnerability of Alpine regions to extreme weather, which is becoming more frequent due to climate change. Authorities are urging residents and visitors to stay alert and follow safety instructions. The Valle Aurina, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, is now facing a challenging recovery, but the swift response of emergency teams has helped mitigate the immediate risks. Further updates are expected as the situation evolves.
Shimanta Das 
