Snow Traps Hundreds On Road

A heavy snowstorm left hundreds of motorists trapped overnight on Italy’s main highway, and many were still digging themselves out Thursday.

A winter storm packing snow, rain and heavy winds pummeled Italy on Wednesday, and hundreds of cars were stuck along a 13-mile stretch of the Highway of the Sun for more than 20 hours.

Blockage of the stretch, which connects Florence and Bologna, virtually severed Italy’s main north-south highway.

Rescue teams made their way through snow 15 inches deep to deliver cups of hot coffee and milk to the motorists who slept in their cars through the icy-cold night.

Authorities closed off the highway Wednesday. Snow was still falling by midday Thursday, and police said the roadway would remain closed until late afternoon.