Amid torrential rain, a flood alert is in place for the hills and plains near Bologna, Ravenn and Forì and there are fears landslides might occur, too, the officials explained.
There are concerns rivers and streams could possibly break their banks across the region.
The weather red alert has been extended until Thursday, although rains are expected to ease slightly then.
Most of the rest of Italy was hit by a fresh bout of rain Wednesday, but steady drizzle was more the norm, aside from a few thunderstorms.
ANSA
