Two separate waves of extreme weather claimed a total of 17 lives in Emilia Romagna and caused massive damage to infrastructure and the economy there, and in parts of Marche and Tuscany.
Scientists say the climate crisis caused by human greenhouse gas emissions is making extreme weather events more frequent and more intense.
“We’ve had extreme phenomena that subverted hundreds of years of statistics and this must be taken account of,” Figliuolo told reporters.
“It is necessary to plan projects that are coherent with the climate change trends.
“I’ve spoken to the dean of Bologna University, which has made specific working groups and specialists available.
“The help of specialists is needed for complex phenomena.”
Potenza-born Figliuolo, 61, commander of the Inter-Forces Summit Operations Command, has taken on the new role after serving as extraordinary commissioner for the COVID-19 emergency from March 2021 to March 2022.
“I flew over the affected areas with Governor (Stefano) Bonaccini,” he said.
“Seeing this territory still bearing he scars (of the flooding) provokes strong emotions in me.”
ANSA
