Three friends seen hugging each other moments before being swept away in flash flood


In a heart-wrenching turn of events, a day meant for a serene walk along the Natisone River in northern Italy turned into an unimaginable tragedy for three young friends. Amidst the sudden rise of flash floodwaters, their final moments captured in a video have resonated deeply, stirring emotions worldwide. As extreme weather events become alarmingly frequent, this incident underscores the unpredictable and often devastating power of nature. The story of these friends’ tragic end not only highlights the personal loss but also serves as a stark reminder of the broader implications of climate change.

The Incident and Immediate Response

On May 31, 2023, three friends—Patrizia Cormos, Bianca Doros, and Cristian Molnar—set out for what they thought would be a peaceful walk along the Natisone River in Italy’s northern Friuli region. The trio, aged 20, 23, and 25 respectively, were enjoying their time when a sudden and severe flash flood caught them off guard. Despite the seemingly tranquil conditions that day, the river quickly surged due to the region’s persistent heavy rains over the preceding days.

As the water rose rapidly, the friends found themselves stranded on a tiny gravel island in the middle of the river. A video later emerged showing the heartbreaking moment when the three friends, realizing the danger they were in, hugged each other tightly in a bid to stay together and possibly stabilize themselves against the powerful currents. The footage captures the tragic final moments before they were swept away by the floodwaters​.

Rescue efforts were initiated promptly, with local firefighters and emergency services arriving at the scene. Giorgio Basile, the chief of the provincial firefighters in Udine, described the harrowing efforts to save the trio. Rescuers threw a rope to the friends, hoping they could use it to pull themselves to safety. Tragically, the force of the flood was overwhelming, and the three friends were literally swallowed by the surging waters before the rescuers’ eyes.

Two bodies, believed to be those of Patrizia Cormos and Bianca Doros, were found downstream two days later, about one kilometer from where they were last seen. The search for Cristian Molnar continued, with teams utilizing drones, boats, and divers to scour the river. The devastation and urgency of the situation were palpable among the rescue teams, as they vowed to continue their search until the third friend was found.

Empathy and Action: Community Response

The devastating flash floods that claimed the lives of Patrizia Cormos, Bianca Doros, and Cristian Molnar have elicited a powerful response from communities both locally and globally. As news of the tragedy spread, the emotional impact on the community was profound. Social media platforms were inundated with expressions of grief, condolences, and support for the families of the victims. Videos and images of the friends’ last moments have been widely shared, evoking a global outpouring of sympathy. Many commenters expressed heartbreak over the incident, highlighting the emotional resonance of such a sudden and tragic loss. “May their souls rest in peace,” wrote one Instagram user, while another reflected, “I can’t imagine what was going through their minds at the time. So sad”​​.

In the local community, the sense of loss was particularly acute. Residents of Udine and surrounding areas came together to offer support to the grieving families. Vigils and memorial services were held, providing a space for communal mourning and remembrance. The emotional support extended by the community has been crucial in helping the families cope with their unimaginable loss​. Social media has played a significant role in spreading awareness about the tragedy and mobilizing support. Hashtags such as #ItalyFloods and #NatisoneRiverTragedy have been used to share updates, express condolences, and coordinate relief efforts. Posts featuring the heartbreaking video of the friends hugging in their final moments have gone viral, bringing international attention to the incident.

The response to the floods has not been limited to emotional support. Practical assistance has been provided by various organizations and individuals. Local authorities, in coordination with national and international bodies, have been working tirelessly to manage the aftermath of the floods. Rescue operations have been supported by divers, drones, and helicopters, demonstrating a robust and coordinated effort to find the missing and aid the affected​​. Charitable organizations have also stepped in to provide aid. Fundraisers and donation drives have been organized to support the families of the victims and assist in the recovery efforts. These initiatives have garnered substantial support, reflecting the solidarity and compassion of people worldwide.

For those looking to support the affected families and communities, there are several ways to contribute. Donations to reputable charities can help provide immediate necessities such as food, water, and shelter for displaced individuals. Volunteering with local organizations can aid in clean-up operations and assist in distributing aid. Spreading verified information and updates on social media can help keep the issue in the public eye and encourage further support from a broader audience.

The community’s response to the tragic incident at the Natisone River highlights the profound impact such events have on both a local and global scale. The outpouring of support, whether emotional, practical, or financial, underscores the collective empathy and resilience in the face of tragedy.

Inspirational Stories of Resilience

One such story comes from the Johnstown Flood of 1889 in Pennsylvania, USA. This flood, caused by the collapse of the South Fork Dam after days of heavy rain, resulted in the loss of more than 2,000 lives. Despite the immense tragedy, the community’s response was nothing short of heroic. The American Red Cross, led by Clara Barton, mounted one of its first major disaster relief efforts, providing food, shelter, and medical care to thousands of survivors. The resilience of the Johnstown community and the support from across the nation played a crucial role in rebuilding the town and providing hope amidst the devastation​.

Another powerful example is the response to the Albert Pike Flood in Arkansas in 2010. This flash flood swept through a campground, resulting in numerous fatalities. The local community, alongside state and national agencies, mobilized quickly to rescue those trapped by the floodwaters. Despite the loss and destruction, the survivors and rescuers demonstrated incredible resilience. They rebuilt their lives, honored the memories of those lost, and strengthened their preparedness for future natural disasters.​ 

In recent years, the town of Lismore in New South Wales, Australia, has faced repeated flooding, exacerbated by climate change. The community’s response to these floods has been marked by extraordinary resilience and solidarity. Residents have banded together to support each other, with local organizations coordinating relief efforts and providing essential supplies. The repeated challenges have fostered a strong sense of community and a proactive approach to disaster preparedness and recovery.​ 

Climate Change, Extreme Weather Events, and Flash Flood Safety

The tragic incident involving Patrizia Cormos, Bianca Doros, and Cristian Molnar, swept away by flash floods in Italy, highlights the increasing prevalence and intensity of extreme weather events driven by climate change. Rising global temperatures enhance the atmosphere’s capacity to hold moisture, leading to more intense and frequent precipitation. For every degree Celsius increase, the atmosphere can hold about 7% more moisture, resulting in heavier rainfall and a higher likelihood of flash floods​. 

Studies indicate that climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather events. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) notes a clear trend of more frequent and intense precipitation events, particularly in Europe​. Flash floods, which occur suddenly due to heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt, are particularly dangerous due to their speed and unpredictability. Saturated soil and specific terrain conditions, like those in northern Italy, exacerbate the risk.​

To stay safe during flash floods, it is crucial to follow these guidelines:

  • Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and emergency alerts.
  • Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, food, medications, and important documents.
  • Create a Family Plan: Plan evacuation routes and communication strategies.
  • Move to Higher Ground: Immediately seek higher ground if flooding starts.
  • Secure Your Home: Move valuables to higher levels and turn off utilities if possible.
  • Avoid Floodwaters: Do not walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters due to hidden dangers.
  • Follow Authorities: Adhere to evacuation orders and emergency instructions.

Understanding the link between climate change and extreme weather, along with adhering to these safety tips, can significantly enhance preparedness and resilience against flash floods​.

Reflecting on the Tragedy

The tragic flash flood incident involving Patrizia Cormos, Bianca Doros, and Cristian Molnar underscores the devastating impact of climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. Their heartbreaking story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable power of nature and the urgent need for heightened awareness and preparedness. As climate change continues to influence weather patterns, it is essential to understand the risks and take proactive measures to safeguard our communities.

Community support and resilience play a crucial role in overcoming such tragedies. The global outpouring of sympathy and practical assistance has demonstrated the power of collective action in times of crisis. By staying informed, preparing adequately, and following safety guidelines, we can mitigate the risks associated with flash floods and enhance our ability to respond effectively to natural disasters.

This incident also highlights the importance of ongoing research and policy efforts to address climate change. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing disaster preparedness, and supporting affected communities are vital steps in building a more resilient future. As we reflect on this tragedy, let us commit to taking meaningful actions that honor the memory of those lost and protect future generations from similar fates.


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