Italy: Adverse weather forecast across northern and western regions through at least Jan. 19

Adverse weather is forecast across northern and western Italy through at least Jan. 19. Strong winds, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. As of early Jan. 17, officials have issued the following weather warnings across the country:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Liguria and Tuscany regions

• Orange snow and ice warnings: Aosta Valley, Liguria, and Piedmont regions

• Yellow snow, ice, strong wind, and thunderstorm warnings: The rest of the affected area

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

The storm could produce rounds of heavy precipitation (including rain and snow), strong winds, and isolated thunderstorm activity. Where precipitation falls as rain, flash and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water and in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Precipitation could fall as snow in the higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides are possible in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

The disruptive weather may cause delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Authorities could temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding/snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. Repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions if there is severe damage to infrastructure.