Italy: Adverse weather forecast to continue across northern and central regions through at least May 21

Severe weather is forecast across to continue much of northern and parts of central Italy through at least May 21. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Thunderstorms and heavy rainfall have been impacting parts of the region since late May 14. As of early May 20, officials have issued the following weather warnings across the country:

• Orange heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Liguria, Lombardy, and Sardinia regions.

• Yellow heavy rainfall and thunderstorm warnings: the rest of the affected area.

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

Parts of northern Italy are still recovering from flooding May 17 caused by heavy rainfall since late May 14. Milan, Padua, and Vicenza cities were the worst affected. Further severe weather is likely to exacerbate the situation and hamper recovery efforts.

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 rain 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.

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. Disruptive weather may cause delays and cancellations 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.