Rome is on red alert for extreme weather as torrential rain hits the Italian capital.

Schools are closed for the day with heavy rains expected to fall in the coming hours.

Workers are clearing manholes throughout the city, in an endless battle against the elements.

And its not just Rome. The central Tuscan region has been slammed forcing thousands from their homes.

The forecast of for the bad weather to move south overnight and is expected to strike the southern Sicilian region Friday.