600+ Die in Mediterranean as Storms Divert Migrants

Winter storms push migrant boats toward Italy's southern shores, driving Mediterranean deaths past 600 this season as perilous crossings intensify. Rough seas and high winds route overcrowded vessels from North Africa into deadly traps off Sicily and Calabria. Rescue operations strain Italian Coast Guard resources amid relentless bad weather. Survivors recount harrowing nights adrift, highlighting dangers of makeshift rafts in turbulent waters.