Italy: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least July 24 /update 1

Severe weather is forecast across much of Italy through at least July 24. Showers and isolated storms are expected over most of the country with the exception of northwestern regions July 22. Further showers and storms are expected over the Apennines, the northern plains, and Alpine regions July 23. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours could lead to flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of July 22, officials have issued the following weather warnings across Italy:

• Orange thunderstorm warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Basilicata and Calabria regions.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Basilicata, Calabria, and Campania regions.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Abruzzo, Campania, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Lombardy, Trentino Alto Adige, and Veneto regions.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Sardinia and Sicily regions.

Further orange and yellow weather warnings are in place across parts of the country July 23-24. Officials will likely update and extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

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.