Tuscany governor requests state of emergency over weather

(ANSA) - ROME, MAR 15 - Tuscany Governor Eugenio Giani on Saturday asked the government to recognize a state of emergency of national importance for the central region following torrential rain and floods.
    "I request the government to recognize the state of national emergency to guarantee quick interventions for the communities affected by the strong bad weather", Giani wrote.
    "I defend my land and my compatriots with determination", said the Tuscany governor.
    Meanwhile the regional government issued an extreme weather red alert for the areas of Valdarno Inferiore, Arno Costa, Bisenzio and Ombrone Pistoiese over the risk of floods following heavy rainfall.
    An amber alert was in place Saturday in Florence and the areas of Mugello and Valdarno Superiore. (ANSA).