Italy: Adverse winter weather forecast across northwestern regions through at least Dec. 5

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across northwestern Italy through at least Dec. 5. As of early Dec. 4, officials have issued the following weather warnings:

• Orange snow and ice warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Liguria and Piedmont regions.

• Yellow snow and ice warnings: the rest of the affected area.

Officials will likely update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

In addition to the heavy snow, strong wind gusts could lead to periods of blowing and drifting snow. Sporadic power outages are possible throughout the affected area.

The winter weather will likely cause ground and air transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are possible along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected states as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities could close stretches of highway if driving conditions become too hazardous. Gusty winds may threaten to topple high-profile vehicles throughout the affected area. Flight delays and cancellations are likely due to ground stops and deicing operations at regional airports.