A severe storm struck the Belluno province in Veneto and Trentino in late October 2018, causing widespread destruction across the region. The mayor of Taibon reported that the San Lucano Valley, a UNESCO-designated site, had been destroyed and fundamentally altered in its environmental and hydrogeological character.
The storm felled entire forests across the Val Visdende, Cansiglio, Agordino, and Feltrino valleys, bringing down electrical infrastructure operated by Enel and Terna. The damage extended to the Serrai di Sottoguda canyon and the area around Malga Ciapela at the base of the Marmolada mountain, both completely devastated by the flooding.
Economic and Infrastructure Losses
The destruction included millions of euros in tourism infrastructure—illuminated trails, signage, and tourism-related projects—swept away by torrential streams. The timber destroyed represented both an environmental and economic loss, with officials noting that recovery would be nearly impossible given the approaching winter season; the fallen wood would lose its commercial value by spring.
Infrastructure damage was extensive, with landslides of varying sizes altering the appearance of hillsides and settlements throughout the province. Officials emphasized that immediate priorities shifted from tourism development to essential needs: road restoration, public safety, and electricity supply.
Outlook and Concerns
Local observers warned that without significant investment in recovery and reconstruction, depopulation of the region could accelerate. The scale of environmental destruction and the challenge of rebuilding basic services raised questions about the viability of long-term development in affected areas.
Frequently asked questions
What areas were most severely affected by the storm?
The Belluno province experienced the most severe damage, with particular devastation to the San Lucano Valley, Val Visdende, Cansiglio, Agordino, Feltrino, Serrai di Sottoguda, and Malga Ciapela at the base of Marmolada.
What types of damage did the storm cause?
The storm felled entire forests, destroyed electrical infrastructure from Enel and Terna, damaged millions of euros in tourism projects including illuminated trails and signage, caused widespread landslides, and devastated road networks and settlements.
Why was recovery considered difficult?
Officials stated that recovery was nearly impossible given the approaching winter season, and fallen timber would lose its commercial value by spring, making the economic and environmental damage particularly hard to recover.
