Rome's Colosseum hit by severe storm, flooding and damage ensue
A powerful lightning strike during a storm in Rome damaged one of the city's most important monuments. Water infiltrated the Colosseum, flooding part of its underground sections.
9:14 PM EDT, September 4, 2024
After months of oppressive heat, a storm and downpour hit Rome. Lightning struck the Arch of Constantine, causing several small fragments to fall off. The underground part of the Colosseum was flooded and had to be temporarily closed to clear the water.
On Wednesday, the archaeological park's management informed that technical staff immediately began removing small fragments of the ancient arch and securing the area.
First heatwaves, now downpours
It was also noted that the downpour coincided with pre-scheduled maintenance of the Arch of Constantine, so urgent work following this sudden incident will be combined with previously planned activities.
On Wednesday, due to the downpour, the underground sections of the Colosseum were closed in the morning for necessary work. Minor damage from the phenomenon called a "water bomb" was also confirmed in the ancient Circus Maximus stadium area.
Heatwaves swept through Rome
Italy's capital repeatedly experienced severe heatwaves this summer, and the Eternal City was on the highest red alert level.
Medical services were on standby due to numerous cases of fainting, including among tourists, as well as social care support, which primarily aids solitary elderly people.
