A TERRIFYING "supercell" storm has left behind a trail of destruction in Italy.

Violent storms have ripped through several tourist regions and left hundreds of trees uprooted from the ground before smashing up parked cars .

Intense rain, hail and winds reaching 60mph caused carnage with local media describing it as a "true maritime supercell".

The phenomenon comes when a storm core that self-regenerates and brings in moisture from the warm sea.

The most damage took place in Rimini and Ravenna with vehicles trashed, crops ravaged and locals forced to flee from beach resorts over the weekend.

The storm first struck shortly after 1am on Sunday as it moved south along the coastline.

Footage captured the moment palm trees were blasted by the powerful winds.

Authorities confirmed 265 tr

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