17 Apr 2023 | 04:23 AM UTC
Italy: Adverse weather forecast across southern and central regions through at least April 18
Severe weather forecast across much of southern and central Italy through April 18. Possible transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds are forecast across southern and central Italy through at least April 18. As of early April 17, officials have issued the following weather warnings across the affected regions:
Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Basilicata, Calabria, Molise, Puglia, and Sicily regions
Orange heavy rain warnings: Puglia Region
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Calabria, Campania, Lazio, Sardinia, Sicily, and Tuscany regions
Yellow thunderstorm, heavy rain, and strong wind warnings: the rest of the affected area
Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Additional power outages are possible in areas impacted by the weather system.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. The disruptive weather may cause additional delays and cancellations at regional airports. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas subject to heavy rainfall and track blockages.
Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding, could persist well after weather conditions have improved; it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather-related updates and advisories. Confirm all transport reservations. Stay away from elevated streams, creeks, and other watercourses that are prone to flash flooding. Do not attempt to navigate flooded roadways. Exercise caution in elevated terrain due to the threat of landslides. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
