Italy: Adverse weather forecast to continue across northern regions through at least Sept. 27 /update 1

Severe weather is forecast to continue across northern regions of Italy through at least Sept. 27. A weather system that has been affecting much of the country in recent days is forecast to move away from Italy Sept. 25; however, another system is expected to approach the north of the country and will bring heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across the region Sept. 26-27. Strong wind gusts, lightning, and possible hail may accompany storms. Heavy downpours could lead to additional flooding in low-lying areas and strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

Officials have issued the following weather warnings across the affected area Sept. 26:

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

• Orange thunderstorm warnings: Lombardy, Trentino Alto Adige, and Veneto regions.

• Orange strong wind warnings: Liguria and Piedmont regions.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Aosta Valley, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Piedmont, Trentino Alto Adige, and Veneto regions.

• Yellow thunderstorm warnings: Liguria and Tuscany regions.

Officials will likely update and possibly 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.