The Italian Supreme Court has upheld a sentence of one year and eight months for former prefect Francesco Provolo in connection with the Rigopiano avalanche disaster.

The tragedy, which occurred on January 18, 2017, claimed 29 lives when a massive avalanche struck the Rigopiano Hotel in Farindola.

The avalanche, described as having the force of 4,000 fully loaded trucks, obliterated the hotel, leaving survivors and rescuers in a desperate situation.

The court's decision also calls for a retrial for the mayor of Farindola and six regional officials, as previous sentences are to be recalculated.

The disaster highlighted issues of emergency response and preparedness, with many victims' families still seeking justice and closure.