Messina, Sicily - At least 14 people were killed and dozens more injured in rain storms that struck north-eastern Sicily, rescue officials said Friday. Italy's government declared a state of emergency to intensify rescue efforts following mudslides and floodings that began overnight and centred mostly around the town of Messina.
Several houses and other buildings were destroyed while several roads were also damaged.
"We fear that there will be more victims," said the head of Italy civil protection service, Guido Bertolaso.
Television helicopter images showed how the collapse of rocky ridge devastated several apartment blocks in the worst hit area, the suburb of Giampilieri Superiore, some 20 kilometres from Messina.
Rescue teams from other Italian regions, including Calabria and Campania on the mainland were being dispatched to Sicily to help with the clearing of debris and search for victims, Bertolaso said.
The number of homeless is believed to be more than 100, news reports said.
