09 May 2023 | 10:20 AM UTC
Italy: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least May 11
Severe weather forecast across much of Italy through at least May 11. Possible transport, business, and utility disruptions.
Event
Severe weather is forecast across much of Italy through at least May 11. Two separate weather systems are forecast to bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across parts of northern and southern Italy on May 9 before the system in the north spreads over much of the country on May 10. Storms may be accompanied by strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may lead to power outages and property damage in affected areas.
As of May 9, officials have issued the following weather warnings across the country:
Orange heavy rain warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Lombardy and Piedmont regions
Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Abruzzo, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Lazio, Liguria, Molise, Puglia, Sicily, and Valle d'Aosta regions
Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Abruzzo, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Lazio, Molise, Puglia, and Sicily regions
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 stormwater drainage systems. Sites 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 heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
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 some delays and cancelations at airports in the affected regions. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.
Localized business disruptions may occur in areas impacted by severe weather; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding is forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
