While Italy is still on its knees due to hurricanes in the north, African heat in the center, and fires in the south and on the islands, the Senate has approved the Flood decree, which refers to the extreme events that occurred in Emilia-Romagna in the spring: a sign that the climate emergency, at least in our country, is becoming structural. Two and a half billion euros is the amount of the decree, which binds virtually all involved ministries: among the interventions, 580 million euros will be used to lay off those who are unable to work due to flood damage. Funding is also available for schools (20 million), universities (3.5 million), agricultural businesses, and the suspension of bureaucratic obligations such as mortgages, bills, and fines. Finally, EUR 200 million will be allocated to the national emergency fund. The creation of an early warning system that uses advanced technologies to monitor and predict flood events in order to warn people in a timely manner is one of the main points covered by the decree. Then there's a flood impact management plan, which outlines what to do in the event of an emergency, including evacuation and rescue protocols. The law also provides for the financing of flood prevention programs, such as the adaptation of existing infrastructure to reduce the effects of flooding or the demolition and redevelopment of at-risk areas, as well as the establishment of assistance and support measures for flood victims, such as financial aid for the repair and restoration of their homes and infrastructure.
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