Italy, Switzerland: Adverse winter weather forecast across northern Italy and southern Switzerland through at least Feb. 11

Adverse winter weather conditions are forecast across northern Italy and southern Switzerland through at least Feb. 11. As of early Feb. 9, officials have issued the following weather warnings:

• Orange snow and ice warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Emilia-Romagna Region in Italy and northern and central Ticino and far southwestern Grisons cantons in Switzerland.

• Orange wind warnings: Liguria Region in Italy.

• Yellow snow, ice, and wind 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 transport disruptions in the region over the coming days. Traffic and commercial trucking delays are probable along regional highways. Difficult and potentially dangerous driving conditions are also likely on secondary and rural roadways in the affected areas as maintenance crews prioritize clearing major routes. Authorities will probably close stretches of highways 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.